7

Phase 7 of 8

Closure

Print Scripts
Return to equilibrium Provide appropriate closure Prepare for between-session Maintain treatment gains

Opening Script

"We are now moving into the closure phase. Whether we fully processed the memory today or still have more work to do, the goal of this phase is to ensure you feel stable and grounded before we end the session."

Closure Steps

1

Assess Current State

"Take a moment to check in with yourself. How are you feeling right now?"

Calm: Proceed with closure
Distressed: Use grounding/containment
2

Containment (Incomplete Processing)

"If there's anything unresolved from today's session, let's place anything unfinished in a safe container until we're ready to return to it."

Guide visualization of placing material in a locked box, vault, or other safe container.

3

Grounding Techniques

"I'd like to help you feel even more present before we wrap up."

Breathing exercise
Five senses awareness
Safe place visualization
4

Reorient to Present

"Notice your feet on the ground, the chair supporting you, and the space around you. You are here, in the present moment, and you are safe."

5

Between-Session Processing Education

"Your brain may continue processing what we worked on today, even in dreams or unexpected moments. If anything comes up, just notice it without judgment. You can write it down or use your grounding skills. If anything feels too intense, we can address it next session."

6

Final Check-In

"Before we finish, is there anything else you need to feel grounded and settled?"

"Great job today. Take care of yourself, and we'll continue next time."

Complete vs. Incomplete Session Closure

Complete Processing

SUD = 0, VOC = 7, Body scan clear

  1. 1. Acknowledge work completed
  2. 2. Brief debrief
  3. 3. Remind about continued processing
  4. 4. End session

Incomplete Processing

Allow 10-15 min for closure

  1. 1. Stop processing
  2. 2. Safe/Calm Place with slow BLS
  3. 3. Containment exercise
  4. 4. Debrief and instructions
  5. 5. Grounding check
  6. 6. Ensure stability before leaving

Closure Script for Complete Processing

"You have done a lot of work today. We may or may not feel like the memory is completely resolved or free of disturbance but keep in mind that each memory is different and some may take one session while others may take several."

"I would like to invite you to take a few minutes to notice how you are doing and feeling right now. How are you feeling?"

"I am right here with you and holding the space you need now to return to greater balance."

Quick Reference

Complete Session

  1. 1 Acknowledge completion
  2. 2 Brief debrief
  3. 3 Remind: continued processing
  4. 4 End session

Incomplete Session

  1. 1 Stop (10-15 min for closure)
  2. 2 Safe/calm place + slow BLS
  3. 3 Containment if needed
  4. 4 Debrief and instructions
  5. 5 Grounding check
  6. 6 Ensure stability

Clinical Notes

  • • Never rush closure
  • • Incomplete processing is normal
  • • Client safety is the priority
  • • Prepare clients for between-session experiences
  • • Have crisis resources available
  • • Document session status & closure techniques
  • • Recommend TICES log for tracking