Under what conditions can a counselor terminate a therapeutic relationship?

A counselor can terminate a therapeutic relationship when the established goals of therapy have been met or when it is determined to be in the client's best interest. This is grounded in ethical practice and client-centered care, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the client has achieved the desired outcomes or that continuity of care would no longer be beneficial for them.

In practice, this includes regular assessments of the client's progress relative to their goals. If the counselor notices that the client has made significant strides towards their objectives, it may be appropriate to conclude the therapeutic relationship. Additionally, if circumstances arise where therapy would no longer serve the client effectively—such as significant life changes or new suitable options for treatment—it is also an ethical reason to terminate therapy.

The other conditions presented do not align with best practices. Termination should not be based solely on the counselor's feelings (as suggested in the second choice) or after a disagreement (as suggested in the third choice), as these can disrupt continuity of care. Finally, while obtaining client consent is essential, it is not the sole determining factor for termination, as it also needs to be based on the client's progress and best interests.