Problem-Solving Therapy
Core Mechanism
Structured problem-solving skills (define, generate, evaluate, implement) counteract hopelessness and behavioral inaction in depression
Ontology
Depression maintained by poor problem orientation (negative appraisal of problems) and deficient problem-solving skills
Therapeutic Voice
"Let's list every possible solution, even the ones that seem impractical. We'll evaluate them after."
View of the Person
A problem-solving agent whose depression reflects poor problem orientation and deficient coping skills
Evidence
APA Div 12: listed. NICE: mentioned for depression
15+ RCTs
Cuijpers et al. (2018)
Strong evidence for depression, especially older adults and primary care.
Conditions
Epistemology
Blind Spots
Narrow skill focus may miss emotional depth; assumes problems are solvable — less suited for existential or grief concerns
Contraindications
Active psychosis with disorganized thinking, severe cognitive impairment beyond what adapted versions can accommodate, clients whose distress is primarily emotional and relational rather than situational, acute crisis
Training
Graduate training + manual study. Straightforward and well-manualized
No formal certification
Graduate coursework + manual; optional 8 hrs
Minimal
Philosophical Roots
Dewey (reflective problem-solving); cognitive-behavioral tradition; D'Zurilla (social problem-solving model); pragmatism
Related Modalities
Test Yourself
Steps in problem-solving therapy?
Show answer
Define problem, generate solutions, evaluate, implement, verify.