Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Where there once were problems, there are now solutions.
What is SFBT?
Solution Focused Brief Therapy (or SFBT) is a type of strength-based therapy that greatly focuses on finding solutions instead of delving into problem-solving. Unlike traditional therapy, SFBT doesn’t explore the causes of the client’s problems. Instead, it helps them identify their future desires and goals.
By reminding them of their future hopes, SFBT gives clients a driving force to arrive at useful solutions to their problems.
Conditions SFBT Can Help With
While SFBT is not used to treat major psychological disorders like depression, it is used in the treatment of the following:
Children’s behavioural problems
Family therapy
Techniques Used in SFBT
Counsellors use three main techniques in SFBT as part of the solution-oriented approach of the treatment.
Miracle questions
The therapist asks the client to imagine a miracle. In other words, the client is asked to imagine that their problems have suddenly disappeared.
The counsellor then asks the client questions about how they envision their future without this problem and what steps they feel were necessary to erase that problem.
Miracle questions set the stage for a possibility of a future where these challenges have been resolved, and the client is able to reflect on the possible solutions that led to this miracle.
Scaling Questions
Scaling questions are based on how the client perceives their current situation. They are asked a series of questions about how they feel about the problem, how frequently they experience it, and how hopeful they feel about resolving it.
These questions are supposed to be answered in the form of ratings from 1-10, with 10 being the highest score.
The client’s ratings give the therapist an understanding of their progress and their self-evaluation of the problem. Clients may also be asked to explain why they gave a certain rating. This helps the counsellor to better understand their thinking processes.
Exception questions
Here, the client is asked to recall times when their current problem didn’t occur and things were positive. By asking clients to remember exceptions, counsellors help them visualize the possibility of solving their problems.
This encourages clients to focus on solutions instead of brooding on the problem. It also helps them realize that their problems aren’t permanent.
Despite how short-term SFBT is, it’s a great approach to help people realize their active potential to solve challenges. It empowers, gives hope, and most importantly, helps people become more solution-oriented rather than feeling powerless in the grip of their problems.
Reach Out To Us
Located at 206 Ontario Street Stratford, we are local to Tavistock, New Hamburg, and the Kitchener-Waterloo area. Our clinicians also offer remote therapy across Ontario so that you can access the support you need - no matter where you are!
To get started you can fill out a contact form, call (226) 215-4244, or book an appointment online with one of our counsellors by clicking below.
We’re looking forward to supporting you!