So sorry you’re going to have to say goodbye to your therapist. I know it’s very hard.

I was the one that ended the therapy. I was feeling ready for it, I had grown so much stronger and felt I could handle life on my own. It wasn’t until after I mentioned wanting to end therapy to T, that I realized how much I was attached to him and how much I would miss him. I was shocked and overwhelmed. The sessions before the last one I could feel my heart break every time I left the room. That was already so hard. My T saw me struggle and was very sweet and caring. In earlier sessions we talked about how to spend the last one and we decided to recap our work together. We were both going to write it down and read it to each other. I had also bought a little gift for him.

So there it was, the final session… T welcomed me with a big smile and gave the usual handshake. We started with reading our stories to each other. It’s one of my favorite moments. My T was very moved by my story, he just looked at me with tears in his eyes. I had never seen him emotional before so that was very special. He had written beautiful things about me too, they were so good to hear. I gave him my gift and he liked that. After that, we talked a bit about the future and some other things. I don’t remember what about. I was very aware that these were our last moments together and I slowly slipped away into another level or state of mind or something, where I was just soaking up these moments and his presence. It was so intense. When it was time to say goodbye, I didn't want to leave with the usual handshake. That didn't feel appropriate. I wanted to hug him, but I didn't know how he would respond to my request. Luckily, he was very open to it. It was a good long hug and it felt so right. Then he pulled me in even closer and I don’t think I’ve ever felt so much love before. Best. Hug. Ever.

Good luck Friday, I hope you’ll have a beautiful final session as well. I believe a good ending will help you cope with your loss. I really think mine did.