ABSTRACT
Termination, the final phase of therapy, offers opportunities for members to consolidate changes in their lives and to face the loss of what has hopefully been a supportive experience. Unless group therapists encourage clients to face both issues, much of the therapeutic benefit of the group may be diminished. The technique described here is one method to enhance the positive impact of the group therapy experience. A crucial aspect of any therapeutic endeavor involves the clients' abilities to take what was learned in group and to incorporate those into their back home worlds. The termination process commonly spans several sessions and involves several stages and techniques to enhance dealing with both crucial tasks. The five stages are: leader announces imminent ending of group, invitation to work, trust boost, transfer of training, saying goodbye. The final stages of termination may involve useful feedback for members, rituals, saying goodbyes and making any follow-up plans that may be appropriate.
