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Ending Therapy? Congratulate Yourself
by Richard B. Patterson, Ph.D.
Therapy can be a profound intimate experience for both client and therapist. As such, saying goodbye can be a difficult and painful process. I would encourage you to make sure that you leave nothing unsaid as far as your regard for the therapy and therapist.
Further, see if your therapist might be interested in any feedback you might have to offer as to what was most helpful. Such input can be invaluable.
Finally, it is my own belief that in successful therapy the therapist grows as well, sometimes with just as much pain. Keep in mind as you conclude your sessions that your therapist has benefited from coming into contact with you.
And most especially congratulate yourself on work well done. Having been on both sides of the couch, I believe very strongly that successful therapy takes great courage. You are worthy of your own respect for that. Ending therapy is also the beginning of a new chapter for you.
About the Author:
Richard B. Patterson, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist in private practice in El Paso, TX. He is the author of three books on psychology and spirituality.
Revised 08/27/10 by Marlene M. Maheu, Ph.D.
Thoughts about this article? Comments? Related experiences? We would love to hear your feedback! Please note that while we will be thrilled to have your take, we cannot answer your personal questions or offer advice in this format. Thanks, the team at SelfhelpMagazine.com.
