Solution Focused Brief Therapy: Definition, Techniques, and Efficacy

It challenges negative interpretations and allows you to recognize the potential solutions and positive changes that are often overshadowed by a problem-focused mindset. It’s about altering the narrative, transforming “I can’t” into “I can”, and “It’s impossible” into “Let’s explore the possibilities”. In this technique, therapists and clients explore times when the problem was less severe or nonexistent.

These may include workshops, supervision, continuing education courses, or specialized training programs. John indicated that he frequently gets lost in his thoughts where he is focusing on what went wrong in his marriage, and what he feels he should have done differently. Since the ending of this marriage, he has been thinking that he will not be able to find happiness again. SFBT doesn’t stress about the problems but instead spotlights possible solutions. It’s like learning to play an instrument – you can always improve and refine your skills.

The results of this study showed that worksheets consisting of the TMQ, MQ, goal setting and EQ increased solution-building, positivity, time-oriented and an ideal level of life. In particular, since positivity and time-oriented are aspects of positive attitude towards life, it is possible to partially increase it by implementing the worksheet. As previously mentioned, worksheet-style support removes the constraints of time and place and allows people to work at their own pace 15. Therefore, a worksheet consisting of the TMQ, MQ, goal setting and EQ is expected to be used as an easily accessible tool to improve the mental health of workers. TMQ is a technique that requires participants to imagine long-term solutions as if they were placed in a time machine, which is part of the SFBT technique developed in a previous study 20 in Japan.

In all statistical evaluations, a significant difference was considered to exist if the p-value was less than .05. We thought that it would not be appropriate to analyze those who did not take the worksheets seriously. However, no one answered “not very seriously” or “not at all seriously,” so all the participants were included in the analysis. They were then asked to rate the concreteness of their goals on a scale ranging from 1 (not at all specific) to 4 solutions focused therapy interventions (very specific).

The Proof is in the Pudding: Research on Effectiveness

• However, some commonly used ones include the Miracle Question, goal setting, exception finding, scaling questions, etc.
• The Bay Area CBT Center provides therapy services for everyone, from children to adults, and welcomes individuals, couples, and groups.
• The miracle question is not just about wishful thinking; it’s a deliberate tool used to cultivate optimism and motivation toward change.
• This boosts their self-esteem, resilience, and belief in managing their problems.
• Typically, SFBT consists of 3 to 5 sessions, although the exact number of sessions may vary based on the individual needs and progress of the client.
• This approach aids clients in defining their goals and the steps needed to reach them.

This exercise encourages clients to identify times when the problem could have been more impactful or they could manage it successfully. It helps clients realize they already possess the skills and resources to overcome difficulties. This involves identifying and mobilizing the client’s internal and external resources – strengths, skills, social support, etc., that can be used to manage their problems and achieve their goals. Therapists ask clients to rate their problems, progress, or confidence in achieving their goals on a scale from 0 to 10. This provides a visual and quantifiable way to track change, discuss barriers, and determine what is needed to move higher on the scale.

• Exception Questions are aimed to identify times when the problem was less severe or absent.
• Coping questions are not just about surviving; they’re about recognizing that even in the hardest times, you have been more competent and courageous than you realized.
• It is a brief, goal-oriented therapy that empowers clients to envision their desired future and discover practical strategies to move towards it.
• It is a flexible approach that can be adapted to various therapeutic settings and client needs.
• By focusing on specific, detailed descriptions of how life will be different when goals are achieved, therapists help you paint a vivid picture of the future you are working towards.

Why are Solution Focused Therapy Techniques helpful?

Exercise caution when working with individuals who have experienced severe trauma. Online platforms like Carepatron provide an excellent environment for conducting virtual therapy sessions, including applying SFT techniques. These techniques can be used with individuals, couples, families, and groups and are applicable across various age groups. They are also suitable for problems such as relationship issues, mental health challenges, stress, grief, and more.

Goal-setting

With its emphasis on collaboration, a future-oriented mindset, and the utilization of inherent capabilities, SFT is a powerful ally in the pursuit of a fulfilling life. The core of solution-focused therapy is its goal-oriented approach that centers on the present and future, sidestepping entanglement in past issues. It’s a process that encourages you to imagine life as it should be, and then, with the guidance of solution focused practitioners, carve out a path to that reality.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to wake up one morning to find that a miracle has occurred, and the problem plaguing you has vanished? This is the essence of the miracle question, a cornerstone of solution focused brief therapy. It’s a technique that guides you to think beyond the confines of your current situation and explore the realm of what could be. Envisioning a day devoid of the specific problem uncovers a spectrum of potential solutions and changes that could lead to that ideal future. Thank you for reading this resource on how to create a Solution-Focused Treatment Plan.

Ideal level of life

Constructivism posits that people are meaning makers and are ultimately the creators of their own realities. Because someone creates their own reality, they may as well change for the better. These questions encourage self-reflection, decision-making, and proactive behavior, which are key components in the solution-building process.

Techniques

This study has several limitations that should be considered when interpreting the findings. First, the participants in this study were working Japanese people between the ages of 20 and 39, who answered the questions online. It would be useful to replicate this study with young people, including middle and high school students, rather than with working adults.

Therapeutic Process and Techniques

In particular, positive thinking, high motivation, high self-confidence, and positive mood are central elements of a positive attitude towards life, and SFBT has the potential to enhance them. Imagine a yardstick for your mental well-being, a way to measure your progress and visualize your journey towards positive change. When you’re asked to rate your current situation on a scale from 0 to 10, it presents a clear and concrete method to monitor your progress and identify steps required to scale higher towards your desired outcome.