What is the final stage of therapy called?

The final stage of therapy is called termination. This phase is crucial because it represents the conclusion of the therapeutic process. During termination, clients and therapists reflect on the progress made, the skills learned, and the changes achieved throughout the course of therapy. This stage allows clients to solidify their gains and to prepare for independence beyond the therapist's support.

Termination is also an opportunity to discuss future challenges and strategies for continued growth or coping skills that might be needed moving forward. It helps to provide closure to the therapeutic relationship, ensuring that clients feel confident as they transition out of therapy. This stage is marked by discussions about the end of sessions, mutual feedback, and the establishment of a plan for maintaining the improvements made, which reinforces the lessons learned during therapy.

In contrast, the other stages—assessment, preparation, and integration—focus on the beginning and middle processes of therapy rather than its conclusion.