Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam Practice Questions 2025 – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Discussing the termination stage with clients at the appropriate time is crucial to prevent client distress. The termination phase marks the conclusion of the therapeutic relationship, which can elicit feelings of loss, anxiety, or abandonment in clients. By addressing this stage early, counselors help clients process these emotions, preparing them for the transition and reducing potential distress.

It's important for clients to understand that the end of therapy doesn’t mean the end of their progress; rather, it is a time to reflect on what they have learned, the skills they have acquired, and how they can apply these in their ongoing lives. Addressing termination proactively fosters a sense of safety, allowing clients to feel secure in their growth and understand that they can reach out for support as needed, thereby making the transition smoother.

While ensuring continuity of care, finalizing client records, and motivating clients to set new goals are certainly valuable aspects of the counseling process, the primary focus in this context is to alleviate the emotional challenges surrounding the termination phase, underscoring the importance of addressing these feelings directly with clients.