Problem Solving

Problem Solving is a structured worksheet which encourages solution-focused thinking. Clients are encouraged to identify a problem, identify multiple potential solutions, then to take steps to put a solution into action.

Problem Solving CBT Worksheet

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Download or send

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Professional version

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

Premium Feature

To use this feature you must be signed in to an active Complete, Advanced, or Team account.

Client version

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

Premium Feature

To use this feature you must be signed in to an active Complete, Advanced, or Team account.

Fillable version (PDF)

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

Premium Feature

To use this feature you must be signed in to an active Complete, Advanced, or Team account.

Editable version (PPT)

An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.

Premium Feature

To use this feature you must be signed in to an active Complete, Advanced, or Team account.

Translation Template

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Introduction & Theoretical Background

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 worksheet 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), namely: clearly defining a problem; generation of alternative solutions; deliberative decision making; and the implementation of the chosen solution.

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

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Therapist Guidance

  1. The first step in problem solving is to identify a problem, difficulty, or dilemma which is bothering you, or about which you have been ruminating or worrying. Helpful things to ask yourself are:
  2. The next step is to generate a range of possible approaches to solving your problem, ideally solutions which are designed to overcome the obstacles that have already been identified. At this stage your job is to think of as many potential approaches as possible, it does not matter how outlandish or unworkable they may be. Generate at least three potential solutions. Consider:

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References And Further Reading

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