Pivotal partings: forced termination with a sexually abused boy

The termination phase of therapy is an integral part of the treatment process, engendering its own unique set of dynamics. However, the potential eruption of new material dislodged by the trauma of the impending loss may in some cases require a reassessment of the discharge goals & consequent alteration of treatment modality. The likelihood of new material surfacing at this critical juncture is perhaps highest among the caseloads of therapist trainees, wherein the termination date is "forced" by the time-limited nature of the learning contract. Case materials are presented in which a supervisor & trainee detail the process of therapeutic shift from a dynamic to a crisis-oriented modality in the case of a young boy whose central trauma emerged during termination. 9 References. HA