| Abstract: | This article offers a comprehensive overview of the issues involved in therapist-imposed terminations of psychodynamic therapy. Despite the common occurrence of therapists leaving clinics because of job changes, end-of-training rotations, or relocation, there has been relatively little discussion in the literature of the forced termination process. The author decribes frequently encountered transference and countertransference reactions as well as realistic responses to the premature ending. Recommendations are offered regarding the timing and manner of informing patients, techniques that facilitate the expression and working through of feelings, and effective ways to achieve closure on the current therapy while helping patients to continue with a new therapist. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
