Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) was founded by Insoo Kim Berg and Steve DeShazer in the 1980s in Milwaulkee. Influenced by the work of Milton Erickson, Gregory Bateson and systems theory, they did empirical research, observing client-therapist interactions, to determine what is most effective to lead to change in clients' lives. SFBT is different than other therapeutic models in that it is brief and episodic in nature.
SFBT has transformed the way therapists think about the therapeutic process and how they collaborate with clients. Over the years this approach has been used effectively in individual, couples, family and group therapy and in medical and agency settings. Solution-Focused Interviewing has been applied successfully in consultations both in corporate settings and third world countries.
How it works
In SFBT the client is considered the expert. The therapist's role is to support the client by coming from a place of “not-knowing” and genuine curiosity. The SFBT process is always goal oriented, and stays away from dialogues about the problem. This therapeutic style enhances client hope, confidence and motivation. It eliminates resistance and power struggles, and so works well with reluctant and mandated clients.
As SFBT therapists, the most important question we have for our clients is: what do they want to see change as a result of therapy? We invite a dialogue about the details of how their lives will look different as a result of working in therapy.
Throughout our sessions we spend much time collaboratively visualizing and establishing a concrete, tangible goal, that is important and meaningful to the clients.
We believe that clients have all the tools, knowledge and wisdom to reach their goals. It is our job to bring out these skills and knowledge in them.
We have clients take the lead, and through our skillful questioning and utilizing Solution-Focused techniques, they make discoveries that help them create positive changes in their lives.
Specific Techniques
Joining
Goal Setting
The Miracle Question
Exceptions
Scaling
Homework Tasks
