What Is Solution Focused Therapy?

Updated: April 30, 2024 | Original Post: August 28, 2019

Solution focused therapy (SFT) is an approach that puts its focus on achieving specific goals rather than the reasons that a problem exists. For example, when a teen is having problems completing their homework or is having trouble sleeping, the SFT approach would focus more on a solution to their problem rather than the causes. If an adult needs to go for an important blood test and has a phobia around needles, then a solution focused approach might be best way to proceed.

I typically will use a SFT approach in two general scenarios.

1. 1. When my client has a limited amount of time that they can spend with me; and
   2. When their goal suggests it.

For example, I could have a client who is looking to see me for only three sessions before going back to school – this time restriction suggests a solution focused therapy approach would be appropriate. If their goal is to improve time management or motivation with school work, and if there aren’t underlying traumatic issues at play, then a SFT approach might include how to break an assignment into smaller pieces and a different way to use a calendar.

The main benefit that I see in SFT is the ability of my client to get support even when they have a time constraint. It also focuses on the strengths that a person has rather than their weaknesses. For more information and an in-depth description of the benefits of SFT check out Goodtherapy.org.

Click here to learn more about a real-life example of how SFT was able to help a student lower their anxiety and meet their deadlines.