Solutions Focused Therapy

Brief Solution-Focused Therapy (BSFT) is a goal-oriented, client-centered approach that focuses on the present and future, rather than the past. The main idea behind BSFT is that you already have the strengths and resources within you to solve your challenges. My role as your therapist is to help you recognize those strengths and use them to create practical solutions to your current concerns.

How BSFT Works
In our work together, we’ll focus on:

  • Goal Setting
    We’ll start by identifying clear, specific goals that are meaningful to you. This gives us a roadmap for our sessions and ensures we’re always focused on what you want to achieve.
  • Focusing on Strengths
    Rather than focusing on problems, we’ll look at what’s already working in your life. I’ll help you recognize your past successes and how you can apply those strengths to your current situation.
  • Finding Solutions
    Together, we’ll brainstorm and explore practical solutions to your challenges. You’ll discover new ways of approaching your issues that align with your strengths and values.
  • Building Confidence and Motivation
    As we progress, I’ll help you build confidence in your ability to manage your challenges. The goal is to keep you focused on solutions and encourage you to take small steps that lead to bigger changes.

Common Techniques Used in BSFT
I use several techniques to keep our sessions focused on solutions and progress:

  • The Miracle Question
    This technique helps you imagine what your life would be like if your problems were suddenly solved. It opens up new perspectives and helps you think about what changes would make a real difference.
  • Exception-Finding
    We’ll look at times when your problem wasn’t as intense or didn’t exist at all. This helps you see what’s worked in the past, so you can apply it in the future.
  • Scaling Questions
    I’ll ask you to rate on a scale (like 1 to 10) how you’re feeling about a particular issue or progress you’ve made. This helps us measure progress and stay focused on small steps forward.
  • Compliments and Strengths-Focused Language
    I’ll highlight the positive things you’re already doing, no matter how small they may seem. This boosts your confidence and reinforces that change is possible.

Who is Likely to Benefit from BSFT?
BSFT is great for individuals who:

  • Are looking for practical solutions to specific, manageable challenges
  • Want to focus on their strengths and how to use them to improve their current situation
  • Prefer a more collaborative, forward-focused approach
  • Are motivated to make changes but need help getting started
  • Have limited time and are looking for a short-term, solution-focused approach

Who Might Not Benefit as Much from BSFT?
BSFT may not be the best fit for people who:

  • Are dealing with severe mental health challenges that need more intensive, ongoing care
  • Want to deeply explore their past or unresolved trauma in therapy
  • Are looking for long-term treatment with a focus on deep psychological work
  • Struggle with identifying specific goals or are not ready to focus on solutions just yet