Termination in Brief Psychotherapy:

Abstract

The termination phase of brief psychotherapy has received noteworthy attention in writings and in practice. The effort here is to offer perspetives on the process and significance of termination in brief psychotherapy. The literature reviewed reflects the spectrum of emphasis accorded the termination phase. This includes the focus on leave-taking as central, minimal or flexible. Theoretical and empirical work relating to termination in brief therapy with college students is then addressed. The authors discuss technical considerations in managing the termination phase and recommend that review and discussion of ending therapy be in keeping with the nature of the therapeutic relationship, its focus, and goals of treatment. Conclusions and implicaitons are presented regarding the termination phase in brief psychotherapy with the university population.