When Can a Therapist Terminate a Relationship Over Email Without a Termination Session?

The answer to this question is complex and often surrounded by controversy. Historically, in the field of mental health, termination of therapy has typically involved an in-person session. However, emails and virtual communication have become more prevalent, leading to situations where termination may occur without a formal face-to-face session under specific circumstances.

In What Circumstances Can a Therapist Terminate a Relationship Over Email Without a Termination Session?

Unfortunately, patients can sometimes be terminated by therapists via email, without any oversight. The behavior of therapists is governed by licensing and ethics, but in practice, there is often little regulation over their day-to-day interactions with clients. This lack of oversight may allow some therapists to terminate relationships arbitrarily, without a termination session or proper referral to another therapist.

Without any concrete policies or oversight, it can seem alarming that such actions are possible. However, it’s important to recognize that even if this happens, there is often no recourse for clients. Complaints to licensing boards may fall on deaf ears, as therapists are independent contractors who are not subject to significant adjudicative processes. Therefore, any action would be based on the therapist’s word versus the client’s, with the client often regarded as a mental patient and thus not taken as credible.

Understanding the Ethical and Legal Framework

Strictly speaking, a therapist must not terminate a client’s therapy over email without a formal termination session. According to ethical guidelines, therapy termination should ideally be done in a face-to-face meeting to ensure that the client fully understands the reasons for termination. If therapy is ongoing and the client has not initiated the termination, unilateral withdrawal of services without assistance in finding alternative help is considered professional abandonment. This is generally unethical and may result in legal or ethical repercussions for the therapist.

Why Would a Therapist Choose to Terminate via Email?

Termination via email can be justified under certain conditions. For example, if a client has abandoned therapy through non-attendance or other unethical behavior, a termination session might not be necessary. However, in such cases, a formal acknowledgment of the client’s behavior and the reasons for termination should still be provided.

Another scenario where email termination might be considered is when the client poses a danger to the therapist or their family. Specific instances such as making death threats or following the therapist home could legitimize termination through non-standard means like emails. While standard practice typically involves a termination session, it is not required by law in all jurisdictions.

Conclusion

In summary, while termination by email without a formal termination session is concerning and ethically questionable, it is currently possible within the current regulatory framework. Patients should be cautious and understand their rights, while therapists should strive to maintain ethical standards even in the face of challenging circumstances.

For more information on mental health therapy and related topics, explore additional resources and consult with a professional.