About this resource
A shared problem list helps focus treatment. This template records current problems in the client's words, their impact, how much the client wants to work on each and the agreed order, linked to goals and the treatment plan.
Purpose
To agree what to focus on first in treatment.
Who it is for
Primary profession: Psychologists. Also relevant for counsellors and therapists.
Client or participant group: Adolescents and adults beginning treatment.
Practice setting: Assessment and early psychology sessions.
Suggested uses
- Assessment
- Treatment planning
- Reviewing focus
- Case formulation
Instructions for practitioners
- Use the client's words.
- Include practical and relational problems, not only symptoms.
- Agree priorities collaboratively.
- Revisit as treatment progresses.
Accessibility considerations
Can be completed verbally.
Scope and limitations
A planning template for use within treatment.
Research basis
Structured problem solving (problem-solving therapy) is an effective treatment for depression. A strong working alliance and routine progress feedback are among the most consistent predictors of good outcomes in therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has a strong research base for anxiety, depression and many related problems; this resource uses CBT techniques to support, not replace, a structured treatment plan.
- Beck, J. S. (2021). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
- Bell, A. C., & D'Zurilla, T. J. (2009). Problem-solving therapy for depression: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 29(4), 348–353. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2009.02.003
- Flückiger, C., Del Re, A. C., Wampold, B. E., & Horvath, A. O. (2018). The alliance in adult psychotherapy: A meta-analytic synthesis. Psychotherapy, 55(4), 316–340. https://doi.org/10.1037/pst0000172
- Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427–440. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-012-9476-1
- Lambert, M. J., Whipple, J. L., & Kleinstäuber, M. (2018). Collecting and delivering progress feedback: A meta-analysis of routine outcome monitoring. Psychotherapy, 55(4), 520–537. https://doi.org/10.1037/pst0000167
What is included
A 2-page printable A4 PDF, including a practitioner notes page with the research basis (version 1.0).
Originality
Original Practitioner Plus content: wording, activity structure, layout and icons were created for this resource. No third-party worksheets, illustrations or text were reproduced.
