ABSTRACT
Case formulation, or case conceptualisation, is regarded as a core competency in many helping professions, including psychology. The origins of case formulation in professional practice can be traced back as far as Hippocrates and Galen in Ancient Greece. Case formulation as a description of problem development and resolution is an activity that all psychologists, amateur or professional undertake, consciously or unconsciously. Agreeing on a clear specific problem and therefore a clear and specific goal is an important part of a useful case formulation and, of course, initial therapeutic interactions. Regardless of theoretical orientation, a formulation will need to include predisposing vulnerabilities, precipitating events or triggers, maintaining factors, and protective factors or strengths. Finally, case formulation culminates in a treatment plan that is established using sound principles of planning. These include: Clarity in goal setting, Specificity in the sub-goals and actions, and Collaboration between psychologist and client.
