It's essential to consider the context of your therapeutic relationship and the specific circumstances when your therapist mentioned that it's okay to message, email, or call after termination. In general, therapists have different policies regarding post-termination contact with clients, and these policies can vary based on individual therapists' preferences and ethical guidelines.
If your therapist explicitly stated that you could reach out after termination, it's likely that they genuinely meant it and were open to maintaining some level of communication. However, it's essential to keep in mind a few things:
Boundaries: Even if your therapist is open to post-termination contact, there may still be boundaries in place to ensure the professional nature of the relationship is maintained. They might specify the types of communication they are comfortable with and the frequency of contact.
Ethical Considerations: Therapists are bound by ethical guidelines that emphasize client well-being and confidentiality. They may advise against contacting them for specific reasons, such as when the client's needs could be better addressed by seeking support from other professionals.
Fee and Availability: Post-termination contact might not be free, especially if the therapist is providing professional advice or consultation. Additionally, your therapist's availability for post-termination contact may be limited due to their schedule or other professional commitments.
Transference: Continuing contact after termination could potentially interfere with the process of ending the therapeutic relationship and might be a topic to discuss with your therapist.
If you want to maintain contact with your therapist after termination, it's best to have an open and honest conversation with them about your needs and expectations. Discuss the boundaries, their availability, and whether there would be any associated fees for communication. Your therapist will provide clarity and guidance on how you can proceed.
Remember that the therapeutic relationship is unique, and the decision to maintain contact after termination should be mutual and beneficial for both parties involved. If you're unsure or have concerns, it's essential to communicate openly with your therapist to find the best way forward.