Brief Therapy-Coping Questions are designed to...

• A. Explain the Problem in Detail
• B. Remind Clients of Their Useful Skills Even When Overwhelmed
• C. Diagnose Personality Type
• D. Provide Direct Instructions

Answer: (B)

Coping questions in Brief Therapy focus on the client’s existing resources and skills, especially in moments when they feel overwhelmed. The goal is to remind clients of what they’ve done before to cope, drawing out strengths, supports, and effective strategies so they feel capable of moving forward. This approach helps build hope and a sense of self-efficacy, guiding the client toward usable next steps rather than staying stuck in the problem.

These questions are not about detailing the problem, diagnosing personality, or giving direct instructions. Instead, they invite the client to recall times they managed despite difficulties and to identify skills or supports they can reuse now. For example, asking what helped in past rough times, who they could lean on, or what small actions made a difference reinforces the resources they already have and uses them to create solutions.