Correlates of Clients’ emotional and Behavioral Responses to Treatment Termination

Abstract

This study investigates the associations between clients' emotional and behavioral responses to treatment termination and eight sets of indepentent variables, covering the source of termination (client, therapist, external source); the termination process (speed, centrality, control, choice, and desire), and the perceived outcome (failure, goal achievement) of the therapy. Subjects were 92 student therapists and 40 professional therapists, who reported on their clients' perceptions, experiences, and responses. All the variables examined were associated with one or another client response. The findings support the view of treatment termination not only as a loss experience but also as a transition. They highlight the need for therapists to pay careful attention to both the source and the process of treatment termination.

Therapists’ Responses to Treatment Termination: An Inquiry into the Variables that Contribute to Therapists’ Experiences

“…Termination of treatment is recognized as an emotionally difficult experience not only for clients (Anthony & Pagano, 1998;Baum, 2005;Fortune, 1987;Fortune, Pearlingi, & Rochelle, 1992;Kramer, 1990;Marx & Gelso, 1987), but also for therapists (Martin & Schurtman, 1985;Northen, 1988;Siebold, 1991;Webb, 1985). In this paper patient and client are used interchangeably to indicate the recipient of the therapeutic services.…”

Au Revoir: An Attachment and Loss Perspective on Termination

“…While many clients do experience significant feelings of loss upon termination, other feelings including pride, accomplishment and self-respect are also prevalent (Baum 2005;Hill 2005;Wachtel 2002). Highlighting those feelings for clients can prove helpful.…”

“…Highlighting those feelings for clients can prove helpful. When the accomplishments and ongoing connection to the therapist are acknowledged, the termination experience is eased (Baum 2005;Hill 2005;Wachtel 2002). This makes sense given what we know about attachment, loss and mourning.…”

“…Whenever possible, endings should be planned, tapered and focus not simply on loss but on accomplishments as well (Baum 2005;Siebold 2004;Wachtel 2002). Clients should also feel free to contact the therapist at a later date (Craige 2002;Hill 2005;Roe et al 2006).…”

“…Clients should also feel free to contact the therapist at a later date (Craige 2002;Hill 2005;Roe et al 2006). Characterizing the end of therapy as a transition, rather than a loss (although that transition may entail some losses) could be more fruitful (Baum 2005). Focusing on positive coping is also important (Roe et al 2006;Stroebe 2002;Wachtel 2002).…”