ABSTRACT
As in any form of therapy, the crisis counseling relationship has a beginning, middle, and an end. Each phase is defined by the nature of the therapeutic relationship, goals for treatment, and the process by which these goals are attained. For most crisis counselors, the demands of the beginning and middle stages of treatment are more clearly defined than those at the end. Initial and midterm goals seem to be more easily accomplished than those required in the third phase. Counselors typically report more comfort developing a therapeutic relationship than with ending one. Setting goals is easier than determining that they have been met and integrated. Developing skills for change requires a mind-set that is different from the skills needed for termination and closure.
