Phase 3

This chapter highlights the importance of the termination phase to the practice of TFPP. Attachment dysregulation and feelings of abandonment and rage come to the fore within the therapeutic relationship during termination. Careful handling of this process is crucial in helping the PTSD patient move past symptoms to effect therapeutic change. Issues that commonly arise during termination are feelings of loss and mourning, anxiety surrounding separations, aggravation of mistrust and anger, and fantasies and fears of helplessness. Feelings of pride and gratitude may also emerge. Termination is a challenging time in TFPP, and this chapter also focuses on common countertransference concerns and ways of avoiding pitfalls. Clinical vignettes of TFPP terminations are provided.