Solution-focused therapy (SFBT) is a psychotherapy approach that emphasises building solutions rather than merely solving problems. While it recognises current issues and past influences, SFBT primarily focuses on an individual's existing resources and future aspirations, encouraging them to leverage their strengths to reach their goals.
What is solution-focused therapy?
Originating in the 1980s from the work of Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim at the Brief Family Center, SFBT is frequently integrated into other long-term therapy methodologies, often yielding lasting effects.
The approach is built on seven fundamental principles:
1. Change is constant and inevitable.
2. Clients must desire change.
3. Clients are the experts in setting their own goals.
4. Clients possess the strengths and resources to resolve their challenges.
5. Therapy is brief.
6. Focus is on what can be changed and what is possible.
7. Future orientation is emphasised; the past is less relevant.
SFBT is a humanistic therapy centered on personal growth, responsibility, and goal-directed solutions rather than problem-solving.
How does SFBT work?
Highlights individuals' strengths and potential, to help clients navigate their issues indirectly by fostering solution-building and establishing clear, achievable goals.
The counsellor' facilitates discussions that elicit and apply these solutions, guiding clients in visualising a detailed future where positive changes have occurred and encourages reflection on past experiences of happiness.
This process instills hope and makes the envisioned solutions feel attainable, propelling the therapy.
The counsellor utilises this vision to shape discussions and techniques that help clients realise their potential and summon the courage to move forward.
Solution-focused therapy techniques
A variety of are employed to clarify solutions and help clients achieve their goals, typically involving tailored questions.
Miracle question
Critical tool that encourages individuals to envision how their lives would change if a miracle occurred, shifting focus away from problems toward potential solutions.
Exception questions
Enables clients to recall times when their circumstances were different, highlighting their strengths.
By exploring these exceptions, therapists empower clients to recognize their resources in finding solutions.
Examples of exception questions include:
- Can you moments when you felt happiest?
- What made those days special?
- When was there a time the problem was absent from your life?
Throughout this process, counselors offer praise to help individuals envision a future guided by their strengths and resources.
Scaling questions
Used to assess the perceived difficulty of problems on a scale from one to ten, helping clients articulate their goals and preferred outcomes. These questions also facilitate progress tracking.
Who can benefit from solution-focused therapy?
Those eager to embrace change and who possess a goal-oriented mindset, making them more receptive to therapeutic techniques.
Its brief nature suits individuals with fast-paced lifestyles, typically requiring around five sessions lasting about 45 minutes each. While therapy usually doesn’t exceed eight sessions, additional sessions be added if needed.
The approach is versatile and can address various issues, including communication challenges, stress and anxiety, substance abuse, behavioral issues, eating disorders, and relationship difficulties. Ultimately, SFBT can facilitate significant life changes, such as starting or ending relationships.