Questions about Therapy

[lallieth]

How does the patient come to the decision to end therapy..if they think they are well enough to end..and can a therapist give a time line as to how long they think a particular patient needs therapy?

 

[Banned]

Hi Lallieth,

I think there are several ways and reasons that therapy can end. It can end because the therapist isn't a good match for the client, or it can end because the client, therapist, or both feel they've gone as far as they can go together. Sometimes it can just take a break and resume a few months later...but usually the decision isn't made without discussion and mutual agreement. Often the therapist will have a "termination process" when a client is leaving as well.

When I left my last therapist it was after 18 months and I just didn't feel like we were getting anywhere or that it was the right match. With my current therapist, I've been tempted to take a few breaks but I've always discussed it with her so she knows where I'm at and what I'm thinking.

A therapist's job is ultimately to become obsolete, and a good therapist will be involved in the process to terminate or cut back, or provide a referral to someone who may be a better match.

 

[Retired]

My understanding, which stands to be corrected, is that at the beginning of therapy, a conversation with the therapist should determine what the goal(s) of therapy should be.

Once those goal(s) are achieved, therapy might end.

 

[Halo]

Just to add to what Steve said, although goals are usually set at the beginning of therapy, I believe that those goals can change and be added to during the course of therapy and therefore add length to the originally time planned for therapy.

 

[Into The Light]

very good question lallieth, i am glad you asked. the thing i've wondered about is what kinds of feelings one might have as a good indicator that it's the right time to finish. does anyone have any insight into this?