Solution-Focused Therapy is a brief therapeutic approach that is considered “Strengths-Based”. As the name suggests, SFT is considered effective, efficient, and hopeful. Each client feels respected because their unique personality strengths are mined both from their past and their present. Plus, they get to take the best from their past to move in the direction of a future they want to develop.
The therapist and client spend less time talking about their current problem which can feel unlike many other therapy models. Instead, therapists follow their clients’ lead in a search for what has worked and what has not when trying to deal with current challenges. When clients broaden their attention to a variety of options when facing a challenge, they’re more likely to build on these alternatives, creating an upward spiral effect.
How Does SFT Work?
In this model, the therapist doesn’t offer solutions but rather WITH the client, looks for strengths that have shown up in people’s lives no matter the level of trauma from the past or the current challenges a client is hoping to address. Both therapist and client hunt for exceptions to the present problem brought to therapy asking, When was this problem absent in a similar situation? or they look for descriptions in their life that are already working, i.e., Where in your life are you experience a sense of satisfaction? By looking at current resources, they’re more likely to marshal them to have confidence toward envisioning a more rewarding future.
When we are on our own, this can be tough but with a solutions-focused advocate and collaborator like therapist Anthony Abastilla, new to MCS Counseling Group, your goals can find real support.
MCS Founder, Julie Canterbury says, “It takes a lot of bravery for people to enter therapy, but seeking to discover ourselves, can open us up to healthier, fuller lives. Connecting from compassion makes this opening to who we really make this possible.”
If you or someone you know is in crisis right now, reach out to this hotline. Help is available 24-hours-a-day at the Suicide Prevention Hotline available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish.
1-800-273-8255