Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a counselling approach that focuses on how change can begin by examining what is already working in a person’s life.
Rather than analysing difficulties in detail, the approach emphasises identifying existing strengths, resources, and moments when problems are less dominant.
Attention is placed on what someone would like to see different and on the small steps that may move situations in that direction.
Key ideas in solution-focused work
SFBT is based on several observations about how change often occurs.
These include:
1
change is often already happening in small ways
2
moments when a problem is less intense can offer useful clues
3
identifying existing strengths can help clarify possible next steps
4
small changes in behaviour can influence larger patterns over time
The approach pays attention to these moments and how they might be expanded.
When this approach may be helpful
Solution-focused work may be helpful when someone is exploring situations such as:
- feeling stuck in a particular area of life
- uncertainty about the next steps in a decision or transition
- difficulties that feel overwhelming when examined only as problems
- wanting to move toward specific goals or changes
The focus of the work is on clarifying what someone would like to see different and identifying realistic steps toward that direction.
What SFBT sessions involve
Solution-focused conversations often include:
- clarifying what someone hopes will be different
- identifying times when the situation has already been slightly better
- exploring strengths and resources that have helped in the past
- considering small and practical steps that may move things forward
The approach tends to focus on present situations and future possibilities rather than analysing problems in depth.
How SFBT is used in counselling
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy can be used as a focused approach when someone wants to explore a specific concern or move toward a particular change.
The approach is often used in shorter, goal-focused counselling processes where attention is placed on identifying practical steps forward.
Some of the questions and techniques developed within SFBT, such as scaling questions or exploring exceptions to a problem, are also widely used within counselling more broadly because they help clarify progress and highlight existing strengths.
Starting counselling
Beginning counselling can feel like a significant step. You are welcome to arrange a short, complimentary 10-minute consultation to ask questions and explore whether this approach may feel like a good fit.
Therapy Location:
12 Middle Road,
#06-02C Midland House
Singapore 188970
By Appointment Only
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