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Bron is joined by Dr Catherine Hart (Clinical Psychologist) to unpack one of the most overlooked but clinically significant parts of therapy: therapeutic endings.

Catherine shares how recent large-scale clinic closures prompted her to reflect on how little training clinicians receive on ending therapy, despite how emotionally complex and ethically important it is. Together, she and Bron explore why endings can stir up attachment wounds, countertransference, and grief for both clients and clinicians.

They chat about:
👉🏽 Why therapeutic endings are often neglected in training and why it matters
👉🏻 The difference between planned and unplanned endings (and why unplanned endings can increase risk)
👉 How to prepare clients for endings from the very first session
👉🏿 What ethical, “good” endings actually look like, including transparency, collaboration, and continuity of care
👉🏾 Managing strong client reactions like anger, distress, or withdrawal
👉🏼 What to do when clients suddenly drop out or “ghost” therapy

Thanks as always Catherine for this informative and engaging episode!

Guest: Dr Catherine Hart (Clinical Psychologist, Director of Succoris Psychology and Succoris Psychology Partnerships, Private Practice Business Coach)

LINKS

• Catherine's psychology practice, Succoris Psychology
• Catherine's on-demand course, "DBT Launchpad: Build & Run a Successful Program"

THE END BITS

Mental Work is the podcast for psychologists about the realities of working in mental health, with an early-career focus. Hosted by psychologist/researcher Dr Bronwyn Milkins.

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Have a question, episode idea or just want to say hi? DM Bron on Instagram, leave a comment on the Spotify episode, or email mentalworkpodcast@gmail.com

Apply to be a guest / YouTube (with captions & transcript) / Website

CREDITS

Producer: Michael English

Music: Home

Commitment: Mental Work believes in an inclusive and diverse mental health workforce. We honour the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of mental health workers with lived experiences of mental illness, disability, neurodivergence, LGBTIQA+ identities, and diverse culture and language. We recognise our First Nations colleagues as Traditional Custodians of the land and pay respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. Mental Work is recorded on unceded Whadjuk Noongar boodja.

Disclaimer: Mental Work provides informational content. Mental Work is not a psychological service and being a listener or guest does not establish a therapeutic relationship. Content should not be considered a replacement for professional consultation or therapy. All views expressed are personal, subject to change, and do not represent those of any affiliated employer, service, or organisation past or present. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but opinions may not always align with fact. Listeners are encouraged to thoughtfully assess the information presented and report any inaccuracies or concerns via email. Further information can be found here.