Purpose 🎯

Prepare for warning signs, high-risk situations, and possible recurrence of use.

Building the Map 🗺️

Help the patient identify:

• Early warning signs
• High-risk situations
• Immediate coping responses
• Recovery supports
• Steps to take after a lapse

Discuss how the patient can respond early rather than waiting until risk escalates.

Planning After a Setback 💡

Include a nonjudgmental plan for what the patient can do if a lapse occurs, such as contacting support, reducing immediate risk, returning to treatment goals, and identifying what can be learned.

Telehealth / Whiteboard Version 💻

Use a flowchart format with “warning sign,” “risk response,” “support,” and “next step” sections.

Why This Works 🌱

Relapse-prevention planning helps patients recognize risk earlier and respond with structure, support, and accountability.

Clinical Pearl 🧠

Frame recurrence as clinically important information, not failure. Maintain attention to safety, accountability, and appropriate level of care.

Documentation Language 📝

Patient developed a relapse-prevention map identifying warning signs, high-risk situations, coping responses, recovery supports, and steps to take following a lapse.

Clinical Focus: Relapse Prevention, Recovery Maintenance, Safety Planning