ABSTRACT
The third component of the DEP model is problem-solving. Empirically supported problem-solving is the central professional activity of school psychologists and thus a core focus within supervision. Problem-solving is involved in all aspects of psychological practice. It is intrinsic to assessment, intervention, consultation, program development, and systems change activities. Problem-solving activities incorporate consideration of all of the ecological factors reviewed in the last chapter. Diversity, multicultural, and environmental influences and other contextual or systemic factors must be addressed in the process of problem-solving. Supervisory practice focused on teaching problem-solving requires integration of all three DEP components. This integration is necessary both to ensure the provision of effective service for clients and to effectively connect theory, research, and practice for supervisees amid the complexities of the field setting.
