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Problem List

An important task during the assessment phase of therapy is to identify client difficulties. The Problem List worksheet is a helpful way of gathering information about current problems and includes client and therapist versions.

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Professional version

A PDF of the resource, theoretical background, suggested therapist questions and prompts.

Client version

A PDF of the resource plus client-friendly instructions where appropriate.

Fillable version (PDF)

A fillable version of the resource. This can be edited and saved in Adobe Acrobat, or other PDF editing software.

Editable version (PPT)

An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.

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Languages this resource is available in

  • Arabic
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • English (GB)
  • English (US)
  • French
  • Greek
  • Italian
  • Polish
  • Spanish (International)

Techniques associated with this resource

Introduction & Theoretical Background

An important task during the assessment phase of therapy is to identify client difficulties. The clinician can draw upon multiple sources of information including direct reports from the client, the client’s family / friends, information from other professionals, and psychometric measures. The Problem List worksheet is one way of gathering information about current difficulties. It includes client and therapist versions, with appropriate prompts for each. Therapists are reminded that as well as recording issues reported directly by the client they should consider additional issues that the client may not be aware of, or may not consider a problem. Therapists should reflect upon whether an identified problem has a bearing upon safety, stability or client engagement.

Therapist Guidance

There are separate ‘client’ and ‘therapist’ versions of this tool. The client version can be given prior to or during an assessment appointment. Both versions include prompts to be considered by the client / therapist.

References And Further Reading

  • Persons, J. B. (2008). The case formulation approach to cognitive behavior therapy. Guilford.