What must a counselor do if they need to terminate counseling services?

When a counselor needs to terminate counseling services, it is essential to secure the client's agreement or offer an appropriate referral. This ensures that the client understands the reason for termination and is given the opportunity to discuss any feelings they may have about it. Open communication during the termination process fosters a sense of closure for the client and maintains the therapeutic relationship, even as services are ending.

Providing a referral is particularly important, as it helps the client transition to another qualified professional who can continue to provide support. This step is part of ethical practice in counseling, emphasizing the counselor's responsibility to act in the best interests of the client, ensuring they have ongoing access to the care they need.

The other choices do not align with ethical practices in counseling. For instance, stopping all communication or ignoring the client's feelings can harm the therapeutic relationship and undermine the client's wellbeing. Discussing termination solely with the agency without involving the client neglects the client's autonomy and can impair their trust in the counseling process.