ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author explores both the ending of therapy and the ending of the couple relationship. The couple hopefully have come to a point at which they are able in the dynamics of their relationship to allow the other the kind of emotional freedom that either makes the continued loving presence of the other a gift, or allows the other to leave to form a new relationship. It is sometimes as clear as that – sometimes, but not often. In couple therapy, if one partner decides to leave, it either brings about the end of the couple's therapy or the focus changes radically from the understanding of the couple's intimate relationship to help in managing a separation. Contrary to the beliefs of some couples, the couple therapist is not there to make a judgement about whether a relationship is viable or not.
