End-phase work that prepares the client to maintain gains and respond early to setbacks. The client identifies warning signs, high-risk situations, skills that helped and a written plan for what to do if symptoms return.
Step-by-step guide
- Review what changed during therapy.
- Identify early warning signs of relapse.
- List high-risk situations.
- Create a coping plan for each warning sign.
- Review the client's most useful skills.
- Plan booster sessions or self-review.
- Normalize setbacks as signals for action, not failure.
When to use
- Final phase of therapy
- Depression relapse risk
- Panic or OCD after improvement
- Clients ending treatment or reducing session frequency
Key phrases
Relapse prevention is not pessimism. It is how we protect the work you have already done.
Follow-up questions
What are your earliest warning signs?
Which skills helped most?
What will you do in the first week if symptoms return?
Alternative phrasings
A setback is not starting from zero.
Let's write the plan now, while things are clearer.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not leave relapse prevention to the last five minutes of the final session.
- ⚠️ Plans must be concrete, not motivational slogans.
- ⚠️ Include risk and support resources where needed.
Source: Beck et al. 1979; Marlatt & Gordon, 1985
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.