In order to help a client handle high-risk situations, the counselor must first have the client identify situations in which they have the desire to engage in the addictive behavior. The counselor can do so by interviewing the client about past relapses or having the client keep a log of when they feel inclined to engage in the behavior. The counselor should also assess the client's motivation and current ability to cope.


The counselor can then teach the client coping skills for both specific situations (for example, assertive communication skills) and more general strategies (for example, positive self-talk and meditation). 

Strategies for Identifying and Coping with High-Risk Situations in the Relapse Prevention Model

The goal of specific intervention strategies is to teach individuals to realize the possibility of relapse and help them handle high-risk situations. Specific intervention strategies include:

- Identifying and coping with high-risk situations
- Enhancing self-efficacy
- Eliminating myths and placebo effects
- Lapse management
- Cognitive restructuring

Villanova University

There are multiple intervention strategies included in the Relapse Prevention model that are designed to help a person through the steps of relapse. These strategies fall into 2 categories:

- Specific intervention strategies, designed to focus on the immediate determinants of relapse
- Global lifestyle self-control strategies, designed to target the covert antecedents of relapse

Relapse Prevention Intervention Strategies

Larimer, M.E., Palmer, R.S., & Marlatt, G.A. (1999). Relapse prevention: An overview of Marlatt's cognitive behavioral model. Alcohol Research & Health, 23(2), 151-160. 

Learn Before

Related

Learn After