OCD Relapse Prevention Plan
An OCD relapse prevention plan listing early warning signs, high-risk times, ongoing exposure, flare-up steps and key learning.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · ERP · Relapse prevention
- Approach / concern
- OCD
- Technique
- ERP · Relapse prevention
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the OCD Relapse Prevention Plan?
Relapse prevention after ERP helps maintain gains by continuing exposure, identifying early signs and planning responses to lapses.
Why it works
ERP protocols conclude with relapse prevention and maintenance planning (Foa et al., 2012). ERP produces durable improvements in many patients (Abramowitz, 2006).
When to use it
- End of ERP
- Stress periods
- Booster sessions
- Family involvement
How to use it in session
- Review learning.
- List early signs.
- Plan ongoing exposure.
- Plan flare-up steps.
- Share with supports.
Clinician tips
- Encourage ‘lifestyle exposure’.
- Normalize fluctuations.
- Schedule booster sessions.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Will my OCD come back?
Symptoms may fluctuate, but continued practice helps keep them manageable.
What is lifestyle exposure?
Regularly choosing to approach OCD triggers in everyday life rather than avoiding them.
References
Foa, E. B., Yadin, E., & Lichner, T. K. (2012). Exposure and response (ritual) prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder: Therapist guide (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Abramowitz, J. S. (2006). The psychological treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 51(7), 407-416.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
