What is the primary purpose of a safety contract in Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

The primary purpose of a safety contract in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is to establish guidelines for managing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This contract serves as a collaborative agreement between the therapist and the client that outlines the steps both parties will take if the client experiences suicidal ideation or engages in self-harm. It emphasizes safety and serves as a proactive measure to address high-risk situations, fostering a sense of accountability and support for the client.

The safety contract contributes to a structured approach that helps clients articulate their feelings and intentions regarding self-harm, making it a critical element in the therapeutic relationship. By having clear guidelines in place, clients can better navigate crises when they arise, while also providing therapists with a framework to intervene appropriately.

While the other options pertain to important aspects of therapy, they do not capture the primary focus of a safety contract. Listing coping strategies is beneficial but not the contract's primary aim; defining therapeutic boundaries is essential for a healthy therapist-client relationship but is more related to general therapeutic practices; and ensuring client confidentiality is a fundamental ethical requirement in therapy, yet it is separate from the specific issue of managing suicidal thoughts and behaviors addressed in the safety contract.