Enlightenment has no definite form or nature by which it can manifest itself; so in enlightenment itself, there is nothing to be enlightened. Enlightenment exists solely because of delusion and ignorance; if they disappear, so will Enlightenment. And the opposite is true also: there is no Enlightenment apart from delusion and ignorance; no delusion and ignorance apart from Enlightenment. Therefore be on guard against thinking of enlightenment as a “thing” to be grasped at, lest it, too, should become an obstruction. When the mind that was in darkness becomes enlightened, it passes away, and with its passing, the thing which we call Enlightenment passes also.
-Lankavatara Sutra courtesy of dailyzen.com

There is an inevitable disappointment when someone has completed their therapy. The anticipated “better place” is nothing more than the mundane everyday flow of tension and ease. There is no emerging sunshine and happy background music. Termination is the term used for finishing up someone’s treatment. It’s a pretty ominous term but it conveys some very important dynamics in the process of change. The uniqueness of the therapeutic relationship allows for a very close, personal connection that is contained in a professional setting. A safe and empathic space is a good setting for new ideas and experiences. When the goals of the treatment have been reached we begin the process of summarizing the process of change; understanding the new found skills and confidences in the here and now; and anticipating challenges in the future.My client walks out of my office as a fellow traveler on life’s journey. No more, no less. Delusion and ignorance do not vanish when therapy is completed. My client’s enhanced self awareness helps her to be on guard and recognize when she is trying to grasp enlightenment. The way out of the darkness is in the tensions and the ease of our every day lives.