Solution Focused Therapy: Essential Information

Solution Focused Therapy (SLT) is a brief (short-term) intervention focused on identifying and using strengths to address psychological challenges. We use a solution focused approach regularly.

SLT is not just a form of therapy. We can apply this method to wide ranging performance and well-being issues.

SLT comprises the following elements:

Clarifying goals
Identifying and encouraging useful behaviours
Using a person's strengths to address problems
Finding problem exceptions
Noticing and learning from positive change.

SLT is based on specific assumptions about people, problems, and the nature of change:

People are experts in their lives
They have strengths and skills that drive positive change
There are always solutions to problems
Small gains can lead to more substantial progress.

We see many clients benefit from the strengths-based, here-and-now approach focusing on current skills and resources. One common effect of solution focused interventions is an increased belief in the ability to change current circumstances. The SLT approach fits well with the positive psychology movement philosophy.

Solution Focused Therapy Techniques

SLT starts with building a detailed description of the issue, then formulating a solution focused question. We then ask a question focused on problem-solving actions. Here are a few examples:

In therapy sessions, we ask How can we improve his mood and engagement with life? rather than How can we reduce his depression?
How can we improve her confidence and ability to step out of her comfort zone? vs How can we reduce her anxiety?
How can we get you to expect positive, realistic outcomes? vs How can you stop catastrophising (assuming the worst)?

The answer to this initial question provides a framework for intervention using SFT techniques.

Miracle Question

The miracle question is a key intervention in SLT. This question allows people to visualise actions and signs of progress concerning a mental health or performance challenge. The question goes something like this:

Imagine that, while you are asleep tonight, a miracle happens. You wake up in the morning and the problem is gone. What will be different?

We build on a response by asking additional questions:

What will you notice first?
What will you be doing differently?
How will you feel?
What will you be thinking?
What will other people notice?

Scaling Questions

Scaling questions identify a person's progress toward problem resolution. These questions structure progress via manageable steps. Scaling questions measure several metrics, such as problem-solving confidence and current effort levels. Here is an example:

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On a scale of 1-10, where 1 is no progress and 10 is problem solved, how close are you to resolving the problem today? What needs to happen for progress to move from 3 to 4?

Other Techniques

Here are a few more SLT techniques:

Problem exceptions

Are there times when the problem disappears for a time?
Tell me about the time when you felt more in control of the issue
Under what conditions could you guarantee the problem will not occur?
When is the problem less intense? What are you doing differently during these times?

Reflecting on success

What did you do well this week, no matter how minor the success?
Why did today go well? How does this compare to a bad day?
Coping questions (e.g., What allowed you to get through that situation without major problems?)

CBT vs Solution Focused Therapy

There are similarities and differences between Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and SLT. Some commonalities include:

'Reframing' unhelpful thinking patterns
A here-and-now focus on problems
Focus on client goals.

Differences include:

We complete a more comprehensive 'formulation' (model or theory) of the problem
CBT relies on 'treatment protocols' (standardised methods) for common psychological problems (particularly depression and anxiety)
We have a more extensive evidence base for CBT effectiveness.

Evidence Base

Practitioners should utilise evidence based practice wherever possible. We need to conduct more evaluation work with SLT using high-quality study designs. While the evidence base is limited at this time, SLT shows promise with various psychological problems (1, 2,3).

Summary

SFT is a valuable approach giving people a sense of direct influence on problems and providing structure for change. We focus on fostering a helpful mindset and taking real-world actions to reach goals.

In the hands of an experienced professional, SFT techniques can be used effectively by therapist and client. This approach can be used as a stand-alone intervention or in tandem with complementary approaches (e.g., CBT, ACT, Mindfulness).

You can find solution focused therapists by searching popular therapist databases. We also offer this approach to clients. SFT is also referred to in short form- Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Be aware of this as you may come across the term 'SFBT Therapists'.