ABSTRACT
A better way to intervene at this part of the cycle is to introduce the concept of CARESS: Communicate A lternatively, Release Endorphins, and Self-Soothe. As we have already discussed, CARESS is an alternative to standard safety contracts that eliminates the power struggle between our clients and us. CARESS is specifically designed to help clients achieve, in healthier ways, the same positive gains they get from self-destructive behaviors. Most clients are tuned in to the fact that self-destructive behaviors ameliorate tension and anxiety and quell the resurfacing of painful memories and affect.
