This paper focuses on the first steps (Planning and Organization) of a three-stage model designed to help school personnel deal with problem-oriented parent-teacher conferences. Seven distinct steps of the Planning and Organization stage are described in detail: (1) specifying the problem; (2) organizing information; (3) specifying objectives; (4) mastering helping skills; (5) understanding parental defenses; (6) planning a conference strategy; and (7) experiencing behavioral rehearsal and role playing. The second and third stages, Conferencing and Self-Evaluation, are briefly described. Although the three-stage model is intended primarily for problem-oriented parent conferences, it may also be useful in developmental conferences. (Author/NRB)