What is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) was developed collaboratively by a group of therapists who were influenced by various therapeutic approaches and theories. Two key figures who played significant roles in the development of SFBT are Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg.
How does IH Psychotherapy utilize Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?
At our practice, therapists use SFBT to help engage clients in a discussion about their desired outcomes and goals. We use SFBT questions to explore clients’ strengths, resources, and previous successes. Collaboratively, the therapist and client establish clear, specific and achievable goals that align with the client’s desired outcomes.
What are the tenets of SFBT?
1. Solution-Focused Questions: Therapists ask questions that focus on clients’ desired outcomes and potential solutions instead of dwelling on problems or past experiences.
2. Goal Setting: Collaboratively setting clear and specific goals that represent the client’s desired changes or outcomes.
3. Solution-Building: Identifying and amplifying clients’ existing strengths, abilities, and resources to develop solutions.
4. Brief and Time-Limited: SFBT is typically brief, with a focus on creating change within a limited number of sessions.
5. Future Orientation: Emphasizing future possibilities and the client’s goals rather than analyzing past events.
What issues does Solution-Focused Brief Therapy address?
SFBT can be used to address a variety of issues including relationship problems, family conflicts, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and more. It is applicable across different age groups and populations.
What does research show about the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?
Studies suggest that SFBT can lead to positive outcomes in various areas, including improvements in subjective well-being, symptom reduction, increased client satisfaction, increased hope and self-efficacy (Gingerich & Peterson, 2013; Neipp & Beyebach, 2022).
It’s important to note that research outcomes may vary across different populations and issues, and further research is ongoing to explore the effectiveness of SFBT in different contexts. It’s always advisable to consult a trained professional and consider multiple sources of evidence to make informed decisions about therapy approaches.
References
Gingerich, W. J., & Peterson, L. T. (2013). Effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy: A systematic qualitative review of controlled outcome studies. Research on Social Work Practice, 23(3), 266-283. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731512470859
Neipp, M-C., & Beyebach, M. (2022). The global outcomes of solution-focused brief therapy: A revision. The American Journal of Family Therapy, 52(1), 110-127. https://doi.org/10.1080/01926187.2022.2069175