Cope Ahead Worksheet

Coping ahead is a concept commonly used in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a therapy model that focuses on teaching skills to manage emotions and improve relationships.

To create a cope ahead plan, identify a stressful situation, list the emotions and thoughts you expect to experience, outline coping strategies, consider obstacles, and identify support resources.

A cope ahead plan for kids is a simplified version that helps children anticipate difficult situations, express their feelings, and identify simple coping strategies when they feel anxious—all with the support of a caregiver or therapist.