ABSTRACT
This chapter presents reflections on the process of ending analysis and its meaning to the patients. Carmel described the ending of analysis in relation to her two experiences. She explained how she felt ready to finish her first analysis after two years, but later started having nightmares again and realized she may have left prematurely. Termination procedures are highly significant to experiencing the analysis as a positive ongoing journey; they require thoughtfulness about, and consideration of, the painful mourning which takes place, and a timing for ending the analysis which is mutually agreed upon by both patient and analyst. ‘Termination” has connotations to such common experiences today as the abrupt ending of a significant life event, for example being made redundant at work, or an actual death experience as in abortions.
