During which circumstances can an MFT terminate therapy?

The correct response reflects that an MFT can ethically terminate therapy when treatment goals have been met or if ethical standards warrant termination. This principle aligns with established ethical guidelines in the field of marriage and family therapy, which emphasize that therapists have a responsibility to ensure that clients are receiving necessary services. When clients have achieved the therapeutic goals outlined at the beginning of treatment, it may be appropriate to conclude therapy.

Moreover, there are scenarios in which ethical standards would require termination. For instance, if the therapeutic relationship is no longer beneficial, if there’s a breach of trust, or if the therapist feels they are unable to provide competent services due to professional limitations, termination becomes not only a professional obligation but also a responsibility to the client’s well-being.

Other options do not align with ethical best practices: the notion of terminating therapy "whenever the therapist feels like it" careless disregards the client's needs and therapeutic progress. Ending therapy after the first session does not generally provide enough time for meaningful therapeutic work and is not typically a standard practice. Additionally, terminating due to a client's tardiness may not appropriately address underlying issues and would be considered an unreasonable basis for ending therapy. Thus, option B encompasses the essential ethical principles and best practices that govern the termination of therapy in