Problem Solving is a structured worksheet that helps clients identify problems, brainstorm solutions, and execute an actionable plan.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
A fillable version of the resource. This can be edited and saved in Adobe Acrobat, or other PDF editing software.
An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.
Problem Solving is a helpful intervention whenever clients present with difficulties, dilemmas, and conundrums, or when they experience repetitive thought such as rumination or worry. Effective problem solving is an essential life skill and this Problem Solving exercise is designed to guide adults through steps which will help them to generate solutions to ‘stuck’ situations in their lives. It follows the qualities of effective problem solving outlined by Nezu, Nezu & D’Zurilla (2013): clearly defining a problem; generation of alternative solutions; deliberative decision making; and the implementation of the chosen solution.
Overcoming feelings of helplessness through actionable steps.
Managing overwhelming situations by identifying effective solutions.
Recognizing and addressing the issues that contribute to binge eating or food restriction.
Clearly define the problem at hand.
Encourage clients to generate a list of potential solutions.
Discuss the pros and cons of each potential solution.
Help clients choose the best or least-worst option.
Develop a concrete action plan to implement the chosen solution.
Problem-solving is often used in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic frameworks, emphasizing actionable strategies to reduce distress and improve clients' ability to cope.
The therapist’s stance during problem solving should be one of collaborative curiosity. It is not for the therapist to pass judgment or to impose their preferred solution. Instead it is the clinician’s role to sit alongside clients and to help them examine the advantages and disadvantages of their options and, if the client is ‘stuck’ in rumination or worry, to help motivate them to take action to become unstuck – constructive rumination asks “How can I…?” questions instead of “Why…?” questions.
In their description of problem solving therapy Nezu, Nezu & D’Zurilla (2013) describe how it is helpful to elicit a positive orientation towards the problem which involves: being willing to appraise problems as challenges; remain optimistic that problems are solvable; remember that successful problem solving involves time and effort.
