The Solution-Focused Approach Quick Guide

What is the Solution-Focused Approach?

The Solution-Focused Approach is a therapeutic method developed in the late 1980s, designed to focus on solutions rather than problems. It is brief, practical, and inherently empowering, making it effective for a range of issues like depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Instead of engaging in prolonged therapy sessions, this approach often brings immediate benefits, sometimes even from a single conversation.

Core Assumptions of the Solution-Focused Approach:

• New Assumption: The individual already possesses skills and abilities to address their challenges.
• Focus on the Future: Conversations focus more on the future and desired outcomes rather than dwelling on past problems.
• Empowerment: This approach empowers individuals by recognising their inherent capabilities and encouraging them to find their own solutions.
• Collaboration: The process is collaborative; the practitioner and individual work together, with the practitioner not needing to have all the answers.
• Positive Expectation: Maintain the belief that positive change is possible, even if there are setbacks along the way.

Techniques in the Solution-Focused Approach:

1. The Miracle Question:
   • Imagine that while you are sleeping, a miracle happens and your problem is solved. Upon waking up, what would be the first sign that the miracle occurred? How would others notice? This question helps shift focus from the problem to potential solutions and desired outcomes.
2. The Exception Question:
   • Think of a recent time when the problem wasn’t present or was less severe. What was different then? This question encourages individuals to recognise that solutions or partial solutions may already exist in their lives.
3. The Scaling Question:
   • On a scale from 0 to 10, where 10 represents the solution and 0 represents the problem at its worst, where are you now? What would it take to move one step closer to 10? This helps break down progress into manageable steps.
4. The Coping Question:
   • Acknowledge that despite challenges, the individual has managed to cope up until now. Ask them to reflect on the strategies they’ve used to survive or manage the situation. This reinforces resilience and identifies strengths.
5. Reframing:
   • Shift perspectives from negative to positive, past to future, and passive to active. For example, if someone says, "I can't do this," reframe it to, "What is one small step you can take?" This technique helps to transform limiting beliefs into opportunities for growth.