As I write this I can't help but think about how quickly time goes by. Winter break begins next Friday for my students, and I will be continuing at my internship site through next Wednesday. I have had so many wonderful, growth inducing experiences this term. As the end of the semester draws near, I have began the process of counseling closure.
Throughout the semester my caseload consistently grew, where I have numerous students I meet with weekly or bi-weekly, in addition to any "walk-ins" or additional students who were on my case for shorter periods of time. I have had the opportunity to develop great relationships with these students and have greatly enjoyed watching, and being a part of, their growth this term. I have been thinking a great deal about termination/counseling closure, as I am now in the process of informing my students of my final day here. I hope to make the transition as smooth as possible, so I have been working to develop post-break plans for many of them.
As I have been actually doing these, what I have learned in class relating to termination makes so much more sense. It truly is an important and powerful moment that should be done with extreme care. Some of my students were visibly upset learning I won't be there in the spring, and what I have learned in those moments is that it has a lot to due with feelings of trust and desiring a positive connection to an adult in their life that they may not have previously had. I have learned through preparing my students that allowing them space to voice any concerns, working with them to identify other trusted adults, and even introducing and working to bridge a connection to another counselor have aided students in this process.
I look forward to what I will continue to learn through my final days at this site!
All my love,
LeAnn
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