Overview
Problem-solving treatment is a well researched, practical psychological intervention. The treatment is very much a here and now treatment, focusing on current difficulties and setting future goals. It does not dwell on past relationships and past mistakes. Patients are helped to gain a sense of mastery over their difficulties.
There is good evidence to support the use of problem-solving in treatment of patients with depression, emotional disorders, and after episodes of deliberate self-harm. Problem-solving has been developed as a brief, feasible, psychological treatment that can be delivered by non-specialists. Much of the evidence supporting the use of problem-solving treatment has been undertaken in primary care.
This definitive guide provides a 'hands-on' manual to assist potential therapists in understanding the background and rationale for problem-solving.
The first chapter of the book provides a brief description of the theory which lead to the development of problem-solving treatment. The research trials underpinning the effectiveness of treatment are discussed in chapter two. Chapters three to seven provide a detailed manual for potential therapists. The structure of problem-solving is set out supported by many relevant clinical examples. Detailed advice is given as to how to structure a course of problem-solving. Case examples of how problem-solving develops over a course of treatment are set out. Advice for would-be practitioners as to how best to deliver problem-solving and also guidance as to potential pitfalls are given. Chapter eight sets out the content of a two day course suitable for teaching problem-solving.
Synopsis
Problem-solving treatment is a well researched, practical psychological intervention. The treatment is very much a here and now treatment, focusing on current difficulties and setting future goals. It does not dwell on past relationships and past mistakes. Patients are helped to gain a sense of mastery over their difficulties.
There is good evidence to support the use of problem-solving in treatment of patients with depression, emotional disorders, and after episodes of deliberate self-harm. Problem-solving has been developed as a brief, feasible, psychological treatment that can be delivered by non-specialists. Much of the evidence supporting the use of problem-solving treatment has been undertaken in primary care.
This definitive guide provides a 'hands-on' manual to assist potential therapists in understanding the background and rationale for problem-solving.
The first chapter of the book provides a brief description of the theory which lead to the development of problem-solving treatment. The research trials underpinning the effectiveness of treatment are discussed in chapter two. Chapters three to seven provide a detailed manual for potential therapists. The structure of problem-solving is set out supported by many relevant clinical examples. Detailed advice is given as to how to structure a course of problem-solving. Case examples of how problem-solving develops over a course of treatment are set out. Advice for would-be practitioners as to how best to deliver problem-solving and also guidance as to potential pitfalls are given. Chapter eight sets out the content of a two day course suitable for teaching problem-solving.
Doody Review Services
Reviewer:Brett C. Plyler, M.D.(Northwestern Memorial Hospital)
Description:This is a primer for primary care physicians and nurses on delivering problem-solving treatment to patients with psychological difficulties.
Purpose:The purpose is to educate physicians, nurses, and others on problem-solving treatment and give them the skills to help patients with anxiety and depression. The book meets these worthy objectives.
Audience:It is intended for physicians, nurses, and other potential therapists.
Features:The book begins with an introduction to problem-solving treatment, a cognitive/behavioral therapy model designed for brief interventions with patients who suffer from anxiety and depressive problems. It presents the research supporting this form of treatment for such problems as emotional disorders, deliberate self-harm, and obesity. A step-by-step explanation is provided of how to arrange and deliver the seven-stage therapy with practical clinical examples as well as exploration of potential problems that may be encountered. The patient handouts, tables, and teaching aids are useful and appropriate.
Assessment:This book has the potential to be very useful for primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and others who want to help patients with psychological problems in a brief, problem-oriented approach. It is clearly written and easy to understand. The seven stages of the treatment are a nice adaptation of a cognitive behavioral treatment and call for heavy patient involvement in the process. However, I question how many primary care professionals will avail themselves of this, and appropriate patient selection could be an issue.
Editorials
From The Critics
Reviewer: Brett C. Plyler, M.D.(Northwestern Memorial Hospital)Description: This is a primer for primary care physicians and nurses on delivering problem-solving treatment to patients with psychological difficulties.
Purpose: The purpose is to educate physicians, nurses, and others on problem-solving treatment and give them the skills to help patients with anxiety and depression. The book meets these worthy objectives.
Audience: It is intended for physicians, nurses, and other potential therapists.
Features: The book begins with an introduction to problem-solving treatment, a cognitive/behavioral therapy model designed for brief interventions with patients who suffer from anxiety and depressive problems. It presents the research supporting this form of treatment for such problems as emotional disorders, deliberate self-harm, and obesity. A step-by-step explanation is provided of how to arrange and deliver the seven-stage therapy with practical clinical examples as well as exploration of potential problems that may be encountered. The patient handouts, tables, and teaching aids are useful and appropriate.
Assessment: This book has the potential to be very useful for primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and others who want to help patients with psychological problems in a brief, problem-oriented approach. It is clearly written and easy to understand. The seven stages of the treatment are a nice adaptation of a cognitive behavioral treatment and call for heavy patient involvement in the process. However, I question how many primary care professionals will avail themselves of this, and appropriate patient selection could be an issue.