I am
a female . . . and I have been seeing my own female psychotherapist weekly
for the past six years. Over the years, we have both developed a deep attachment
to each other and have discussed this openly. I was taken by surprise when
she told me one day that I don’t need to be in psychotherapy anymore
and that I should call her if I need her. We hadn’t discussed termination
before. My psychotherapist was much more distant on this day in contrast
to her usual friendliness. I agree that I am ready to take a break from
psychotherapy. I know she thought she was acting in my best interest, but
I feel hurt and sad. Would you advise another session for me to discuss this
with her, or do you think it would just prolong the grief of separation for
both of us?
In competent psychotherapy, a psychotherapist should never
terminate the treatment
abruptly without at least one session to process it all
honestly. Otherwise
the client will be left feeling surprised, hurt, and sad—as you well
know.
So, yes,
you are owed an explanation.
There could
be some hidden, personal reason in the background from which your psychotherapist
is trying to protect you, but, if so, that’s a misjudgment on her part.
After all, when parents do this to children, it only causes psychological
problems. Everyone needs an honest explanation.
No
advertising—no sponsor—just the simple truth . . .
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