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1. Help the young person put the problem and what they want to happen into words. Have
a think firstly about whether the young person is in control of this problem. Also is it
actually something you can help with. Ask them where they want to start – somewhere
simple.
2. Brainstorm solutions with the young person. Explore lots of possible solutions before
even thinking about what might work best. Questions like:
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“How have you managed problems like this in the past?”
“How do you want to see this problem resolved?”
“Do you know of anything that has worked well for other young people?”
“Do you want to hear about what I have found has worked for other young people?”
Only offer your own suggestions as a last resort. It is better for a young person to think
about their own skills and supports that could help.
3. Help the young person pick a solution. Make sure it is realistic. Maybe look at the pros
and cons of different solutions.
4. When you have chosen a solution, try making a plan with them about where to go from
here. Set some small, realistic, specific steps, - what, with who and when. Maybe even
brainstorm things that might get in their way. What has caused problems in the past?
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