Understanding the Termination Phase

Termination in play therapy is not merely the end of therapy sessions but a significant therapeutic process in itself. It involves preparing the child for the conclusion of therapy, reflecting on their progress, and ensuring they feel supported as they transition out of therapy. The goal is to provide closure, reinforce the gains made, and empower the child with strategies and tools they can use moving forward.

Importance of Termination Activities

Termination activities are designed to help children understand and accept the end of therapy. These activities aim to:

• Facilitate Reflection: Encourage children to reflect on their therapeutic journey, recognizing their growth and achievements.

• Provide Closure: Help children process the end of therapy, addressing any feelings of loss or separation.

• Empower: Reinforce coping skills and strategies that the child has learned during therapy.

• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate the child’s accomplishments and the hard work they have put into their therapy.

Common Termination Activities in Play Therapy

1. Memory Books or Journals

   • Activity: Create a scrapbook or journal documenting the child’s therapy journey. Include drawings, stories, and photos from sessions.
   • Purpose: Helps the child reflect on their progress and provides a tangible reminder of their achievements and coping strategies.

2. Goodbye Letters

   • Activity: Encourage the child to write a letter to their therapist, expressing their thoughts and feelings about the therapy experience.
   • Purpose: Offers a way for the child to process their emotions and say goodbye in a meaningful way.

3. Termination Play

   • Activity: Engage in a final play session where the child can play out themes of endings and new beginnings using toys and role-playing.
   • Purpose: Allows the child to symbolically process the end of therapy through play, a natural medium for expression and understanding.

4. Reviewing Progress

   • Activity: Review the child’s goals and the progress made towards them. Discuss specific examples of growth and change.
   • Purpose: Reinforces the child’s sense of accomplishment and highlights the positive outcomes of therapy.

5. Creating a Future Plan

   • Activity: Develop a plan for how the child can continue to use the skills learned in therapy in their daily life. This might include identifying support systems, setting new goals, and brainstorming coping strategies.
   • Purpose: Empowers the child with a sense of preparedness and confidence to handle future challenges.

6. Celebration Ceremony

   • Activity: Host a small celebration to honor the child’s hard work and progress. This could include a certificate of completion, a special treat, or a fun activity.
   • Purpose: Provides positive reinforcement and a celebratory closure to the therapeutic process.

Best Practices for Implementing Termination Activities

• Individualized Approach: Tailor activities to the unique needs and preferences of each child. Consider their developmental level, cultural background, and personality.

• Gradual Transition: Introduce the concept of termination early and prepare the child gradually. This can help mitigate feelings of anxiety or abandonment.

• Parental Involvement: Engage parents or caregivers in the termination process to ensure ongoing support for the child outside of therapy.

• Therapeutic Sensitivity: Be attuned to the child’s emotional responses and provide additional support as needed. Termination can be an emotional time, and it’s essential to address any feelings of sadness or loss.