Solution-Focused Therapy

As with any theory, know your key concepts, therapy goals, and the process and techniques of that particular modality. Know your key terms and what those key terms mean!

Solution-Focused therapy focuses on solutions to problems rather than on the problems themselves. The therapist uses “solution talk” in therapy rather than “problem talk” in order to promote change and a sense of hopefulness. 

Therapists believe the the client or family have become “stuck” in dealing with a problem due to continued reliance on the same ineffective methods for resolving it. Solution-focused therapists believe that all individuals and families have the strengths and resources they need to resolve their problems, and the general goal of therapy is to help the family access and apply their strengths and resources. Goals are chosen by the individual/family and are stated in positive behavioral terms. 

Family members are viewed as the “experts” while the therapist acts as a consultant/coach who poses questions and uses strategies designed to help them use their strengths and resources to achieve their goals. Common questions are:

Miracle Question: If a miracle happened while you were sleeping tonight, and your problem is solved, how will things look different when you wake up? What will be different?

Exception Questions: These are used to identify potential solutions by helping the client recognize that there have been times when they were able to cope successfully with their problem. “Are there times or places when the problem is less troublesome?” is an example.

Scaling Questions: This can help determine a family member’s perception about the current status of the problem and helping them see their progress in reaching goals. “On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the worst that things have ever been, and 10 being the best, where are you today?” is an example of how  a therapist would use a scaling question.

Therapy is terminated when family members agree that their goals have been accomplished. What else is helpful to know about Solution-Focused Family Therapy? Share your thoughts in the comments.