This article describes the application of a problem-solving model to the pr
ocess of supervision, specifically focusing on the issue of problems relate
d to discussions of emotional reactions to patients. The Problem-solving mo
del encompasses five key processes: problem orientation, problem definition
and formulation, generation of alternatives, decision making, and solution
implementation and verification. To illustrate this process, a beginning s
upervisor applies the model to her supervision of a student therapist worki
ng with chronically ill patients.