How To End Care With Your Provider

Note: Not sure which article you need? If you just need to cancel or reschedule a specific appointment, see Cancel an Appointment with Your Alma Provider. This article is for ending your care relationship with a provider entirely.

If you'd like to stop seeing your provider, it is recommended that you let them know directly. Once you and your provider agree to end care, no additional sessions will be scheduled.

Ending therapy is a normal part of care. Whether you're taking a break, have reached your therapy goals, or are looking for a different provider, your provider can help make the transition as smooth as possible.

How to End Care With Your Provider: Step by Step

  1. Tell your provider you'd like to end or pause therapy.
  2. You can have this conversation:
    • During a session.
    • By phone.
    • By email, if that feels more comfortable.
  3. Confirm whether you have any outstanding invoices to pay.
  4. Once you and your provider discuss ending care, no additional sessions will be scheduled.
Note: There isn't an "End Treatment" button in the Client Portal. Ending care happens directly through your provider.

If you're looking for a new provider, see Using the Alma Directory to Find a Provider.

Common Reasons for Ending or Pausing Therapy

You may decide to end or pause therapy for many reasons, including:

  • You'd like to try a different type of therapy.
  • You'd prefer to work with a provider who better aligns with your personal preferences or identity.
  • You've achieved your therapy goals and feel ready to end sessions.
  • You need to focus on other life priorities.
  • You'd like to take a break to support your emotional well-being.

If you plan to pause therapy, talk with your provider about whether and when you'd like to return.

Talking to Your Provider

If you're unsure how to start the conversation, consider discussing:

  • Why you'd like to end or pause therapy.
  • Whether you plan to return in the future.
  • Any referrals you'd like for continued care.

If you're looking for a different type of therapy, your provider may be able to recommend another therapist who better fits your needs.

Whenever possible, avoid ending communication without letting your provider know. Ending a therapeutic relationship is a normal part of care, and your provider can help make the transition as smooth as possible.

How Do I Find a New Provider?

Browse the Alma Directory to find a provider who meets your needs.

When comparing providers, consider:

  • Their therapeutic approach.
  • Their specialties and areas of expertise.
  • Their experience with your goals or concerns.

If you're interested in a different therapeutic approach, you may also want to learn more about common therapy modalities, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Exposure Therapy
  • Interpersonal Therapy
  • Psychodynamic Therapy

For an overview of these approaches, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Can I End Therapy in the Client Portal?

No. There isn't an option in the Client Portal to end your care relationship. To end or pause therapy, contact your provider directly.

Do I Need to Pay Any Remaining Balances?

If you pay for sessions through Alma, review and pay any outstanding invoices before ending care. See How to Review and Pay Your Alma Invoice.

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