What Is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is an evidence-based, collaborative therapeutic approach that focuses on helping clients build solutions rather than getting stuck in a negative thinking cycle about problems. SFBT is based on the belief that clients already possess the strengths and abilities to help create meaningful change in their lives.
SFBT is widely regarded as a flexible and inclusive approach with its emphasis on using brief interventions, with many clients usually experiencing improvement within 4-6 sessions on average.
What does SFBT help with?
SFBT has been used to help individuals experiencing:
Stress and anxiety
Low self-esteem
Depression
Relationship or family concerns
Youth concerns (eg., behavioural concerns and emotional regulation)
SFBT focuses on small achievable changes, client’s strengths, resilience and collaboration between the therapist and the client.
What can SFBT look like in therapy?
SFBT sessions are very collaborative and conversational. As the client, you are guided by the therapist toward your ideal goals, shifting your attention from focusing on the problem to the possibility of change, uncovering strengths and solutions.
Common SFBT Interventions?
Scaling Questions - a technique where the therapist asks the clients about experiences, progress or confidence on a scale of 1 to 10. This technique helps clients recognize progress and move toward an achievable goal.
Miracle Question- a technique used to help clients imagine their preferred future and set realistic goals. A question asked may be like “Suppose that one night, while you were asleep, there was a miracle and this problem was solved. What would be different?”.
Exception Questions - a technique where therapists explore moments when the problem is manageable or less severe. A question asked may be “Tell me about a time when this problem felt less overwhelming”. This intervention highlights existing successes and strengths of the client.
Strengths of SFBT:
Goal-focused
Time-efficient and adaptable
Collaborative and client-centered
Emphasizes resilience
If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, uncertain or simply looking for support in creating meaningful change, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy may be a helpful approach for you. Therapy does not always have to focus on problems, it can also be a space for you to recognize your strengths and explore possibilities, building towards a future you want for yourself.
If you feel this approach resonates with you, book a free consultation where you can discuss your concerns, goals, answer any questions you have and explore whether working together feels like the right fit for you.
