Introduction
The concept of “ending” in therapy is a sensitive, yet common question that often arises for clients at different points in their journey. Some wonder about it even before starting therapy, curious about how long the process might take. Others reflect on it midway through or when considering a pause. I’m writing this article with clients in mind, because I believe it’s important to normalize conversations around such meaningful topics. Therapy is a space where all feelings and questions are welcome—including the question, "When does this end?" My hope is to share my approach openly, offering reassurance and clarity about how we navigate this together.
Your Psychologist/Therapist as Your 'Mental Health GP'
I see my role much like that of a General Practitioner (GP) --- Physical Health Doctor, but for your mental health. Just as you might visit your GP for regular check-ups or when something feels off, I aim to be a steady, reliable support for your psychological well-being. Clients often come to therapy during times of crisis, needing frequent sessions to find stability. As healing progresses, the need for regular sessions naturally decreases.
Eventually, many clients reach a point where they feel well enough to check in only as needed. This transition often prompts the question, "Do I stop seeing you now? Is this goodbye?" My answer is simple: therapy doesn’t have to have a formal ending. Mental health, like physical health, is dynamic. It evolves with life's seasons, and support can ebb and flow accordingly. This approach aligns with recent therapy research emphasizing the significance of the therapeutic alliance as a dynamic, ongoing relationship that supports client well-being over time (Flückiger et al., 2020).
The Nature of Mental Health Support
Mental health isn't a destination; it's an ongoing journey with peaks, valleys, and unexpected turns. Life changes—new jobs, relationships, losses, or transitions—can stir emotions and challenges you thought were behind you. That’s why I offer an open-door approach. Whether it’s weeks, months, or even years down the road, you can return to a familiar, trusted space where your growth and well-being are understood and supported.
Some clients pause therapy when they feel ready, returning when life calls for extra support. Others prefer occasional check-ins, finding value in having dedicated time to reflect, process, and release life’s mental load. This flexibility honors your evolving needs, supporting not just recovery but long-term resilience. Studies highlight that a strong therapeutic alliance, maintained over time, significantly contributes to sustained mental health improvements (Wolfer & Mohr, 2021).
Normalizing the Return to Therapy
Many people feel a sense of shame or hesitation when considering a return to therapy, worrying it signals failure. But mental health isn’t a one-and-done experience. Just as you wouldn’t hesitate to see your GP for recurring physical symptoms, revisiting therapy is a sign of self-awareness and strength, not weakness.
Let’s reframe therapy as an ongoing resource, not a finite program with a clear-cut end. Life will always present new challenges, and seeking support is a proactive choice. Our therapeutic relationship can be a steady foundation you return to whenever needed, free from judgment, rooted in respect. Contemporary research has also highlighted how enduring therapeutic relationships foster resilience and promote adaptive coping strategies (Baier et al., 2022).
Do We Need to 'Name' the Ending in Therapy?
While I don’t set formal endings, I deeply value the opportunity to reflect on your progress when it feels right for you. Concluding sessions can be powerful milestones—a chance to celebrate growth, acknowledge the work you’ve done, and express gratitude for the journey we’ve shared.
However, this isn’t a requirement. There’s no pressure to mark an “official” ending unless it feels meaningful to you. Whether we have a dedicated closing session or simply pause with the understanding that support is available whenever you need, the door remains open. My role is to meet you where you are, always. In fact, flexibility in managing therapy endings can enhance the therapeutic alliance and improve long-term outcomes (Muran et al., 2021).
Why This Approach Might Be Right for You
If you’re considering therapy, I want you to know that my approach is flexible, compassionate, and centered around your unique journey. You don’t have to worry about reaching a definitive end point. Instead, think of therapy as a space that grows with you, available in times of crisis, transition, or simply when you need to feel heard and supported.
Whether you’re navigating change, processing emotions, or seeking clarity, I’m here to walk alongside you—not just for a chapter, but whenever you need, for as long as it serves you.
References
Baier, A. L., Kline, A. C., & Hill, C. E. (2022). The enduring impact of the therapeutic alliance: A longitudinal study. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 69(3), 265-278.
Flückiger, C., Del Re, A. C., Wampold, B. E., & Horvath, A. O. (2020). The alliance in adult psychotherapy: A meta-analytic synthesis. Psychotherapy, 57(3), 344-355.
Muran, J. C., Safran, J. D., Gorman, B. S., & Samstag, L. W. (2021). Flexible approaches to therapeutic endings: Implications for alliance and outcomes. Clinical Psychology Review, 89, 102080.
Wolfer, S., & Mohr, D. C. (2021). Sustaining the therapeutic relationship: The role of long-term therapeutic alliances. Psychological Services, 18(4), 432-445.
Article written by Dr. Tiffany Leung
I'm UK-based chartered psychologist with 13+ years of experience in therapy, coaching, and self-development. Holding a Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from the University of Manchester, I work within the NHS and offer private practice services, supporting diverse clients in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin to achieve emotional well-being and personal growth.
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