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In the human services field, it is a natural succession to terminate the services with a client. It is the method in which the termination is conducted that makes all the difference. In this guide, you will learn about the ways in which services are terminated, and you will also learn how to terminate services for the client in a manner to which does not impede their success.

There are few ways in which the client’s services are terminated and they are as follows:

1. Client terminates the services due to the service not working; whether it is due to client or service itself.

2. The resources or ability to assist the client is beyond the realm of the services provided.

3. Goals are reached by the client and he/she is no longer in need.

4. The case manager is leaving the agency.

5. The client is moving away.

6. The client’s funds and/or insurance are prohibiting the service.

Certainly, there may be more reasons as to why the client is no longer receiving the services; however, the aforementioned are the most common. Therein lies the question of how to properly terminate the helping relationship. Understandably, this may be a difficult transition for the client and it is our duty to alleviate any stress that may be inspired by this change.

First and foremost, we should have as many discussions possible about the impending termination of services. Ensuring that the client is aware that the end goal is their independence, the client may not be so quick to regress. As research states, “termination is an expectation discussed with clients from the beginning of the work together; it is planned for by the worker and the client together” (Johnson, 2009, p. 294). Having the client part of the process, will enable them to feel inclusion in the termination of services. Sometimes, a worker is unable to accomplish this task; therefore, an in-depth discussion as to the reasons of termination of services is imperative.

The second is to ensure that the client has all the necessary resources for the client to remain successful. As we have given a service to which they may have celebrated for quite some time, independence may be a little scary for them. It is then helpful to offer alternatives in case they need additional help. This may circumvent the client from feeling as though they are alone and further, will build on the foundation for autonomy. This also may include referring the client to another worker in the case where you are leaving the agency.

Another aspect of the termination process is to make certain that the client knows you will continue to ensure their success; even if not directly. Letting the client know that you will be periodically checking on their status may further alleviate any stressors that the ending of the helping relationship may cause. Whether it is calling once a month or having an office visit; let them know that you are making sure they remain successful. Additionally, the worker can slowly schedule appointments with a longer time span when you are getting close to termination. This way, the client will gradually become accustomed to being independent.

If clients are insistent on ending the helping relationship early, it is your responsibility to have the client knowledgeable about the effects of such a decision. As clients have free will, sometimes, we may find that they are not ready for termination and clients may be at odds with that ideology. Thus, it is imperative that the client knows the consequences of such termination. Further, giving the client written directives upon termination of services will allow the client to know what their succession should include. This will also circumvent any misunderstandings of directions you give the client. It also holds the client accountable with the decisions he/she may make after the helping relationship has ended.

If the client is terminating the relationship, ensure that the client is doing so in their own best interest; as it may be as simple as affordability. If the client is unable to afford the services, be resourceful and seek out other means to help the client continue their services or find other services to which will aid the client. As mentioned, having an in-depth conversation as to why the services are terminating is a necessary step.

Regardless of how services may be terminated, it is imperative that the relationship is left intact; even if the client is not happy with the services. Ensuring understanding of the process and that the client has all the resources available to be successful, is crucial when ending the helping relationship. Monitoring the client may go beyond the termination; however, it may allow the client to feel independent and it is important to the client’s self-efficacy. As the ethics dictate “Social workers who anticipate the termination or interruption of services to clients should notify clients promptly and seek the transfer, referral, or continuation of services in relation to the clients’ needs and preferences” (Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers, 2005). We, at the very least, owe the client that much.

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CASE TERMINATION GUIDE 7

SELF-CARE AND YOU! …What you really need to know to maintain yourself!

What is it? Self-Care is ensuring your own physical, emotional, social, spiritual and mental well-being is healthy. Possible result of when one neglects self-care (1) Fatigue (2) Stress (3) Poor nutrition (4) Mental health issues (5) Substance abuse (6) Physical health issues (7) Strained social and/or work relationships (8) Burn-out The detriment of ignoring your needs and yourself, far outweighs the benefits in using self-care activities. Be aware of yourself! Know your limits!

“Self-care is not about self-indulgence, it’s about self-preservation” - Audrey Lorde Where do I even start? One might sit and wonder…Where do I even begin? Understandably, you may have been taking care of everyone else so long, that you forget to take care of yourself! There are things that can be done to circumvent burn-out or other effects of ignoring yourself! The cardinal rule is to not feel guilty of taking care of you, as it will help you take care of others! Strategies There are many strategies in which you are able to take care of yourself; some of which do not impede on your busy schedule and only take a few minutes per day to do! Taking 15 minutes of your day for some of the following activities is a small price to pay for its rewards! Keep in mind there are many more strategies then listed, however, some are as follows:

Exercise- as some may know, exercise releases endorphins to which increase happiness! Whether it is yoga or cardio, you can find your escape and an outlet for stressors! Eat Healthy- eating healthy will not only improve your insides, but it will eventually exude on the outside! Sleep- this is not your enemy; this is your friend, the more rest you incur, the more energy you will have to make it through your day! Find a hobby- having a hobby you enjoy will enable you to have an outlet! Maybe journaling will be your hobby, it releases any stressors! Socialize- being in a group of your peers or relatives, will allow you to clear your mind and enjoy the moment! Have a nice dinner or even go on a trip! You deserve it! Laughter is the best medicine- the age old adage rings true! Laughter may be just what the doctor ordered! Get outside- nature has a way of soothing and centering people! Enjoy the sounds, the sun, the silence of your surroundings! Get to know yourself- do you know who you are? Take the time to introduce yourself, take a spa day or buy yourself something that you would not normally do! Sometimes we forget who we are and we need reminding!

References:

Bard, E. (n.d.). 45 Simple Self-Care Practices for a Healthy Mind, Body, and Soul. Retrieved from: http://tinybuddha.com/blog/45-simple-self-care-practices-for-a-healthy-mind-body-and-soul/

Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. (2005). Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 11(3), 395-422. doi:10.1300/J146v011n0306

Google Images (n.d.) for all pictures present. Retrieved from: https://images.google.com

Johnson, L. C., Yanca, S. J. (2009-08-01). Social Work Practice: A Generalist Approach, 10th Edition. [Bookshelf Ambassadored]. Retrieved from https://ambassadored.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781323118160/

Rasmussen Hand-out (n.d.). EYE ON ETHICS Terminating Services By Frederic G. Reamer, PhD SOCIAL WORK TODAY May/June 2006. Retrieved from: https://engage.rasmussen.edu/learn/mod/url/view.php?id=656660

Scott, E. (October 5, 2016). Top Self Care Strategies for Overall Stress Reduction. Retrieved from: https://www.verywell.com/self-care-strategies-overall-stress-reduction-3144729