ABSTRACT
Our profession elevates the status of what we – somewhat brutally – designate the “termination phase of analysis.” A terminated case – one in which both parties agree to conclude their relationship at some specified date in the future – is often a requirement for graduation. We recognize the demands on both analysand and analyst during this anticipated ending of a long and intense relationship. The unexpected death of a patient short-circuits this process for the analyst and highlights the special difficulties of mourning this unique relationship.
