When Does Therapy End? How to Recognize When It's Time to “Graduate” Therapy
Therapy is a powerful tool for helping people get support for their mental health, emotional struggles, and personal challenges. It provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their feelings, thoughts, and experiences and work towards personal growth and healing. But with all good things, therapy must come to an end at some point. So, when does therapy end?
The answer to this question is not one-size-fits-all, as the timing of the end of therapy will depend on the individual's specific needs and goals. Some people may only need a few sessions to achieve their therapeutic goals, while others may continue therapy for years.
Here are a few factors that can impact the timing of the end of therapy
Achieving therapeutic goals
The primary reason for ending therapy is when the individual has achieved their therapeutic goals. This may include reducing symptoms of mental health conditions, improving relationships, or increasing self-awareness and understanding. At LifeSpring, we hope that people walk away feeling better and feeling better equipped to manage their mental health.
Financial considerations
Therapy can be expensive, especially if paying out of pocket, and some individuals may need to end therapy due to financial constraints. Sometimes the loss of a job or change in health insurance influences someone’s ability to pay for services. At times, therapy ends not because someone is ready for it to end, but because of finances.
Life changes
Significant life events, such as a move to a new city, a new job, or the birth of a child, can impact the timing of the end of therapy. Did you know that therapists are licensed in their state and they are only able to work with individuals who are physically located in the state where they are licensed. If you move out of state, your therapist will no longer be able to work with you (unless they are licensed in that state too). Good therapists, however, will make sure that you have referrals for providers in your new location if you are hoping to continue therapy once you move.
Therapist's recommendations
A therapist may recommend ending therapy if they believe the individual has made significant progress and no longer requires ongoing support. Ending a therapeutic relationship can be difficult, especially when you’ve done a lot of great work with your therapist or when you fear that something will come up and you won’t have support if you end therapy. If your therapist thinks you are ready to end therapy, however, they will let you know.
Regardless of the reason for ending therapy, it is important to end the therapeutic relationship in a positive and healthy manner. It’s important to have open and honest conversations with your therapist, especially around any thoughts of ending therapy. Therapists recommend holding a final session, known as a termination session, to reflect on the individual's progress and discuss future plans for self-care and support. After all, there are many times in life when we do not get to experience positive endings, and therapy is an opportunity to experience positive endings.
Resources After Ending Therapy
At LifeSpring, we have several resources that individuals can use once their work with a therapist has ended. These resources can also be used while actively participating in therapy too.
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Interested in Online Counseling for Anxiety or Depression?
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The counselors and social workers at our Maryland office also offer counseling services for trauma, grief and loss, boundary setting, communication skills, and difficult life transitions. We also offer specialized counseling services including Brainspotting and spiritually-integrated counseling. Because we are located next to several local universities, we also work with college students and international students.
Photo Credit: Sam Lion, Katerina Holmes, and Liza Summer
Date of Download: 3/14/2022
