Running head: GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Group-Facilitated Discussion on Solution Focused
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March 11, 2019
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Initial Post:Group-Facilitated Discussion on Solution Focused
Discussion Prompt:
Introduction: Solution Based Therapy
Solution focused therapy was developed by Steve De Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg in the
1980’s. It is based on the concept that people have the ability to change quickly and can
create a “problem-free language” when striving for future solutions (Corey, 2016). De
Shazer was not focused on the cause of past or present problems but more on current
behavior change to help enhance a person’s life (Corey, 2016).
Initial discussion post: Use solution based therapy in the following case study and use
the therapeutic process described in Corey textbook, pg 374.
Sally is a 35-year-old female who has been in a relationship for the past 2 years. Due to
past relationships where Sally was cheated on, she reports being overly clingy and
suspicious of her current boyfriend’s every move. Sally’s boyfriend has become
frustrated with her, stating that she doesn’t give him any space and that she needs to
learn to trust him. Sally is concerned that her behaviors will destroy their current
relationship.
Solution focused therapy readings:
Carrera, M., Cabero, A., Gonzalez, S., Rodriguez, N., Garcia, C., Hernandez, L., &
Manjo, J. (2016). Solution-focused group therapy for common mental health problems:
Outcome assessment in routine clinical practice. Psychology and Psychotherapy:
Theory, Research and Practice, 89, 294-307. DOI:10.1111/papt.12085.
Clarke, J. K. (2014). Utilization of clients’ metaphors to punctuate solution focused brief
therapy interventions: A case illustration. Contemporary Family Therapy, 36, 426-441.
DOI 10.1007/s10591-013-9286-y.
Corey, G. (2016). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (10th ed.). 371-
392. Boston, MA: Cengage.
Kane, F. (2016). Whose Problem? Everyone’s solution: A case study of a systemic and
solution-focused approach to therapeutic intervention in a secondary school.
Educational & Child Psychology, 33(4). Retrieved fromhttps://eds-b-ebscohost-
com.regiscollege.idm.oclc.org/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=4&sid=7c3f3b2d-f7d7-4114-
a51e-2f5d38d1cc3e%40pdc-v-sessmgr01.
Kim, J. S. & Franklin, C. (2015). Understanding emotional change in solution-focused
brief therapy: Facilitating positive emotions. Best Practices in Mental Health, 11(1).
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Retrieved fromhttps://eds-a-ebscohost-com.regiscollege.idm.oclc.org/eds/pdfviewer/
pdfviewer?vid=9&sid=876e2f33-0e11-4474-bb30-dbc06b352992%40sdc-v-sessmgr03.
Solution focused therapy related videos:
Connie, E. (2016). 5 Keys to asking solution focused questions that produce meaningful
responses. Retrieved fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dq93r0x6_8
Diane R. & Gehart, P. (2016). Solution focused therapy lecture 2016. Retrieved
fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYxRBGaB1mM.
Grande, D. T. (2016). Solution-focused brief therapy role-play miracle question with
aocial anxiety. Retrieved fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcXENqOwulw
Grande, D. T. (2016). Theories of counseling solution-focused brief therapy. Retrieved
fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovck87LCd3E.
Visser, C. (2009). 20 Progress-focused techniques. Retrieved
fromhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXhJUvBL7oc.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Sally is a 35-year-old female who has been in a relationship for the past 2 years. Due to past
relationships where Sally was cheated on, she reports being overly clingy and suspicious of
her current boyfriend’s every move. Sally’s boyfriend has become frustrated with her,
stating that she doesn’t give him any space and that she needs to learn to trust him. Sally is
concerned that her behaviors will destroy their current relationship.
According to Carrera et al, (2016), solution-focused therapy is a future-focused and goal-
directed therapy that is focused on solutions and not the problems that cause the client to seek the
help of a therapist. As illustrated in the case study, Sally exhibits post-traumatic stress symptoms
which include high levels of distrust, being overly clingy, and suspicion of her current boyfriend.
This is largely caused by the bad experiences of being cheated on in the previous relationship.
Solution-focused therapy is an effective intervention to help Sally overcome her post-traumatic
stress because it focusses on immediate improvement and enables the client to build a better
future.
As Sally is struggling with trust issues in her current relationship due to past experiences of being
cheated on. Her behavior of being overly clingy and suspicious of her boyfriend's every move can be a
result of these trust issues.
It's understandable that Sally's boyfriend may be frustrated with her behavior, as everyone needs space
and autonomy in a healthy relationship. However, it's also important for Sally's boyfriend to understand
where her behavior is coming from and to be patient and supportive as she works through her trust
issues.
It may be helpful for Sally to seek therapy to work through her past traumas and learn coping
mechanisms for her trust issues. Communication and trust-building exercises with her boyfriend could
also be helpful in strengthening their relationship.
Ultimately, it's important for Sally to address her trust issues for her own well-being and the health of
her current relationship.
In addition to seeking therapy and engaging in communication and trust-building exercises, there are
other steps that Sally can take to manage her trust issues and improve her relationship with her
boyfriend:
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Identify triggers: Sally can identify situations or behaviors that trigger her trust issues and work to
develop strategies to manage her emotions and reactions in those situations.
Practice self-care: Sally can engage in activities that promote her physical and mental health, such as
exercise, meditation, and journaling, to help her manage her anxiety and build her confidence.
Communicate effectively: Sally can work on improving her communication skills to express her feelings
and concerns to her boyfriend in a calm and constructive way. This can help build mutual understanding
and trust between them.
Focus on the present: Sally can focus on the present moment and the positive aspects of her
relationship rather than dwelling on past experiences or worrying about the future. This can help her
stay grounded and present in her current relationship.
By taking these steps, Sally can begin to manage her trust issues and build a healthier relationship with
her boyfriend. It will take time and effort, but with the right support and tools, she can overcome her
past experiences and build a stronger foundation for her current relationship.
It's important for Sally to understand that building trust in a relationship is a process that takes time,
effort, and consistent communication. It's not something that can be achieved overnight, but rather a
gradual process of building a strong foundation of mutual trust and respect.
Sally's boyfriend also has a role to play in building trust in their relationship. He can be patient,
understanding, and supportive as Sally works through her trust issues. He can also be transparent and
honest in his actions and communication, which can help build trust and reassure Sally that he is
committed to their relationship.
It's important for both Sally and her boyfriend to set clear boundaries and expectations in their
relationship. This can help avoid misunderstandings and build trust by demonstrating a mutual
commitment to each other's well-being and happiness.
In addition to these steps, Sally may also benefit from learning about healthy relationship dynamics and
effective communication strategies. A therapist can help her develop these skills and provide guidance
and support as she works through her trust issues.
In summary, building trust in a relationship takes time, effort, and consistent communication. Sally can
take steps to manage her trust issues and improve her relationship with her boyfriend by seeking
therapy, practicing self-care, communicating effectively, focusing on the present, and setting clear
boundaries and expectations. With patience, understanding, and commitment, Sally and her boyfriend
can build a strong foundation of mutual trust and respect in their relationship.
Another important step for Sally is to address her insecurities and work on building her self-esteem.
Insecurities can often fuel trust issues, as they can cause someone to doubt their own worth and believe
that they are not worthy of love and loyalty. By building her self-esteem, Sally can learn to trust herself
and her ability to navigate the challenges of a relationship.
Sally can also work on developing a support system outside of her relationship. This can include friends,
family, or a therapist who can provide emotional support and guidance. Having a support system can
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
help Sally feel less reliant on her boyfriend for emotional support and validation, which can in turn help
her build trust in herself and her relationship.
It's important for Sally and her boyfriend to have open and honest conversations about their needs and
expectations in the relationship. This can include discussing boundaries, expectations around
communication and socializing with others, and how they each express love and affection. By having
these conversations, they can build mutual understanding and trust in their relationship.
Finally, Sally should be patient and kind to herself as she works through her trust issues. Changing
deeply ingrained patterns of behavior and thinking takes time and effort, and setbacks are a normal part
of the process. By staying committed to her growth and taking small steps each day, Sally can overcome
her trust issues and build a strong, healthy relationship with her boyfriend.
In addition to the steps mentioned earlier, Sally can also consider practicing mindfulness and self-
reflection to manage her trust issues. Mindfulness can help her become more aware of her thoughts and
emotions, allowing her to identify and manage negative thought patterns that may be fueling her trust
issues. Self-reflection can help her gain insights into her past experiences and how they may be
influencing her behavior in her current relationship.
Another important step for Sally is to practice forgiveness, both towards herself and her partner.
Forgiveness can help her let go of past hurts and resentments and move forward in her relationship.
However, forgiveness does not mean forgetting or condoning hurtful behavior. It means acknowledging
the pain, letting go of the anger, and choosing to move forward in a positive way.
It's also important for Sally to recognize that trust is a two-way street. While she may be struggling with
trust issues, her boyfriend also has a responsibility to be honest, transparent, and trustworthy in their
relationship. If Sally's boyfriend has given her reasons to doubt his loyalty or honesty, it's important for
him to take responsibility for his actions and work to rebuild trust in their relationship.
Finally, Sally can also consider joining a support group or seeking out resources on building trust in
relationships. There are many resources available, including online forums, books, and podcasts, that
can provide guidance and support as she works through her trust issues.
In summary, managing trust issues in a relationship takes time, effort, and commitment. Sally can take
steps to manage her trust issues by practicing mindfulness and self-reflection, practicing forgiveness,
recognizing the importance of mutual trust, and seeking out support and resources. By taking these
steps, Sally can build a strong, healthy relationship with her partner and move forward in a positive
direction.
It's important for Sally to remember that building trust is a continuous process that requires ongoing
effort and communication. Even if she makes progress in managing her trust issues, there may be times
when she experiences setbacks or triggers that cause her to feel insecure or suspicious. During these
times, it's important for her to communicate openly with her partner and seek support from her
therapist or support group.
It's also important for Sally to practice self-compassion and avoid self-criticism. It's natural to feel
frustrated or discouraged when dealing with trust issues, but beating herself up over her struggles will
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
only make the process more difficult. Instead, she should remind herself that change takes time and that
it's okay to make mistakes along the way.
In addition, Sally and her partner can work together to build trust in their relationship by practicing
active listening, expressing gratitude and appreciation, and demonstrating consistent respect and
honesty towards each other. By working as a team, they can strengthen their bond and build a
relationship that is based on trust, mutual understanding, and support.
Overall, managing trust issues in a relationship is a complex process that requires patience, effort, and
commitment from both partners. By taking steps to address her trust issues and build a strong
foundation of mutual trust and respect, Sally can create a healthy, fulfilling relationship with her
partner.
It's important for Sally to recognize that trust is not just about her partner's behavior, but also about her
own perceptions and beliefs. By examining her own thoughts and feelings about trust, Sally can gain a
deeper understanding of her own patterns of behavior and work to shift her perceptions towards a
more positive and trusting mindset.
Sally can also consider seeking out couples therapy with her partner. A trained therapist can help them
both explore their emotions and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment, and provide them with
tools and strategies for building and maintaining trust in their relationship.
It's important for Sally to stay committed to the process of managing her trust issues, even if progress is
slow or difficult at times. By staying focused on her goals and seeking out support when she needs it,
Sally can build a relationship that is strong, healthy, and based on mutual trust and respect.
The initial step would be asking Sally to candidly describe her problem including important details such
when, how, and ways in which the problem affects her. Next, coping quotations will be posed to the
Sally help reduce the tension between the therapist and the client which could adversely affect the
outcomes of therapy. Of course, indirect positive compliments will be offered to the client. The second
step is the miracle question. This is a method of questioning that is used by therapists to aid the client
to envision how the future would be different when the problem is solved. One of the questions that
will be posed to Sally is "supposing a miracle happened now so that you no longer experience the bad
memories of your previous relationship, what would you see differently?" "What would be the first sign
that the miracle has happened?" In the words of the present (Bannink, 2015), the miracle question
enables a therapist to invite to the client to envisions and provide in-depth facts and detail how the
future would improve when the problem is no longer existent.
The next step is the exception question. It is important to note that the exception question is by
default, a solution. Some of the necessary exception questions that I will pose to Sally include; "What
has this problem been less of a problem to you?" "When as your last time to be mentally, emotionally,
or psychologically affected by the bad memories of your past relationship?" The last step would be the
scaling question to Sally. Scaling is important in solution-focused therapy because it helps the client
break down the perception of the situation. (Diane & Gehart, 2016). Some of the scaling questions that
would be posed to Sally include; "You said that things are 4 and 5. What do you think would happen so
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
you could say things are between 5 and 6?" "For a moment imagine that 10 are the best things and 0 is
the absolute opposite of this, where between 0 and 10 would you place yourself right now?"
Solution-focused therapy would be an effective strategy to help Sally to heal from heartbreaks in her
previous relationship and to overcome post-traumatic stress. This therapy focusses primarily on the
achievement of desired changes for Sally immediate future (Bannink, 2015). It also provides direction,
support, and accountability which makes it beneficial for clients who have the necessary capabilities to
achieve their goals but need some direction, inspiration, and support like in the case of this Sally.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
References
Carrera, M., Cabero, A., González, S., Rodríguez, N., García, C., Hernández, L., & Manjón, J.
(2016). Solution‐focused group therapy for common mental health problems: Outcome
assessment in routine clinical practice. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research,
and Practice, 89(3), 294-307.
Bannink, F. (2015). 101 solution-focused questions for help with trauma.
Diane R. & Gehart, P. (2016). Solution-focused therapy lecture 2016. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYxRBGaB1mM.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Peers Responses:
Please replies these post with 2 or more references between the last 5 years
JuliaMcVay
De Shazer’s solution-based therapy is a great approach. As you mentioned, solution-based therapy
is not focused on the cause of past or present problems but more on current behavior change to
help enhance a person’s life.
Solution-based therapy, also known as solution-focused brief therapy, is a type of therapy that focuses
on finding solutions to current problems and enhancing a person's life rather than delving into the
causes of past or present problems. This approach is rooted in the belief that people have the ability to
find solutions to their problems, and it aims to empower individuals to identify and use their strengths
to achieve their goals.
In solution-based therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to identify the person's
goals and develop a plan to achieve them. The therapist focuses on the client's strengths and resources,
rather than their weaknesses or problems. The therapy sessions are usually brief, lasting only a few
sessions, and the focus is on the present and the future.
The therapist may use techniques such as scaling questions, miracle questions, and exceptions to help
the client identify their strengths and resources, and to develop strategies to overcome their problems.
The therapy is designed to be practical and action-oriented, with the emphasis on finding solutions and
making positive changes in the client's life.
Overall, solution-based therapy is a client-centered, goal-directed approach that aims to help individuals
overcome their problems and achieve their goals by focusing on their strengths and resources, and by
empowering them to take action to improve their lives.
Some of the key principles of solution-based therapy include:
1. Solution-focused approach: The therapist focuses on identifying solutions to the client's
problems rather than exploring the root cause of their problems.
2. Collaborative relationship: The therapist works collaboratively with the client to identify goals,
develop strategies, and track progress towards achieving those goals.
3. Client empowerment: The therapist helps the client identify their strengths and resources, and
empowers them to take action to achieve their goals.
4. Brief therapy: Solution-based therapy is typically brief, with therapy sessions lasting only a few
sessions.
5. Action-oriented: The focus of solution-based therapy is on taking action and making positive
changes in the client's life.
Solution-based therapy can be effective for a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship
problems, and addiction. It is particularly useful for individuals who are looking for a practical and
action-oriented approach to therapy that focuses on solutions rather than problems.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Overall, solution-based therapy can help individuals identify and use their strengths to overcome their
problems and achieve their goals, leading to greater overall satisfaction and fulfillment in their lives.
Solution-based therapy is typically structured around a series of sessions that focus on specific goals and
outcomes. During the initial session, the therapist will work with the client to identify the specific
problem or issue they want to address, as well as their goals for therapy.
The therapist will then use a variety of techniques to help the client identify their strengths and
resources, such as scaling questions, miracle questions, and exception questions. Scaling questions
involve asking the client to rate the severity of their problem on a scale from 1-10, which can help to
identify the areas that need the most attention.
Miracle questions involve asking the client to imagine what their life would be like if their problem was
suddenly solved, which can help to identify the steps needed to achieve that outcome. Exception
questions involve exploring times when the client was able to overcome their problem or when their
problem was less severe, which can help to identify strategies for achieving their goals.
Throughout the therapy process, the therapist will continue to work collaboratively with the client to
develop and implement strategies for achieving their goals. This may involve identifying specific actions
that the client can take, such as practicing relaxation techniques or engaging in positive self-talk, as well
as exploring the client's beliefs and attitudes that may be contributing to their problem.
Overall, solution-based therapy is a goal-directed, practical approach to therapy that can help individuals
overcome their problems and achieve their goals. It is focused on the present and the future, and
empowers individuals to take action to improve their lives.
One of the strengths of solution-based therapy is that it is a relatively brief and time-limited approach to
therapy. This means that individuals can see positive changes and improvements in their lives in a
shorter amount of time, which can be motivating and encouraging.
Additionally, solution-based therapy can be a good fit for individuals who prefer a more structured and
action-oriented approach to therapy. It can also be helpful for individuals who may feel stuck or
overwhelmed by their problems, as the focus is on identifying solutions and making positive changes
rather than dwelling on past or present issues.
Another benefit of solution-based therapy is that it is a flexible approach that can be tailored to meet
the needs of each individual. The therapist can use a variety of techniques and strategies to help the
client achieve their goals, and can adjust the therapy sessions as needed based on the client's progress
and feedback.
However, it is important to note that solution-based therapy may not be appropriate for individuals who
have severe or complex mental health issues, or for individuals who need a more in-depth exploration of
their past or present experiences. In these cases, a longer-term therapy approach may be more
appropriate.
Overall, solution-based therapy is a practical and effective approach to therapy that can help individuals
overcome their problems and achieve their goals. By focusing on solutions rather than problems, and by
empowering individuals to take action to improve their lives, solution-based therapy can lead to positive
changes and increased satisfaction and fulfillment.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
In addition to being effective for individual therapy, solution-based therapy can also be used in couples
or family therapy. In these settings, the therapist works with the couple or family to identify their goals
for therapy and develop strategies for achieving those goals.
For example, in couples therapy, the therapist may help the couple identify their strengths and
resources, and develop strategies for improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening
their relationship. In family therapy, the therapist may help the family identify their strengths and
resources, and develop strategies for improving family dynamics, resolving conflicts, and strengthening
family relationships.
Solution-based therapy can also be used in group therapy settings, such as support groups or therapy
groups. In these settings, the therapist may use a variety of techniques to help group members identify
their strengths and resources, and develop strategies for achieving their goals.
One of the challenges of solution-based therapy is that it can be difficult for some individuals to shift
their focus from their problems to solutions. Some individuals may also feel that the therapist is not
addressing the root cause of their problems, which can lead to frustration or resistance.
To address these challenges, the therapist may need to work with the client to build trust and rapport,
and to help them identify the benefits of focusing on solutions rather than problems. The therapist may
also need to be flexible in their approach and adjust the therapy sessions based on the client's needs
and preferences.
Overall, solution-based therapy is a practical and effective approach to therapy that can help individuals,
couples, and families overcome their problems and achieve their goals. By focusing on solutions rather
than problems, and by empowering individuals to take action to improve their lives, solution-based
therapy can lead to positive changes and increased satisfaction and fulfillment.
This approach allows the client to free themselves from his or her problems and focus on positive
solutions to the issue. An emphasis of solution-based therapy is on the process of developing a
future solution rather than the past manifestation of the problem, with the focus being on identifying
past successes and exceptions to the problem, as well as identifying new and different ways of
responding in future efforts to solve problems (Kim et al., 2015). This is a way for the client to talk
about the past without dwelling on negative past events.
Solution-based therapy is a good approach to help Sally overcome her insecurities and trust issues
regarding her boyfriend. The interview would start off with Sally describing her problems regarding
her issues with her boyfriend, as well as her actions towards him. The therapist should listen
respectfully, then ask Sally, “how can I be useful to you?” The therapist would work with Sally to
develop goals and inquire what would be different in her life if these problems where solved. The
therapist would explore with Sally what was different in times when her problems were not present or
less severe. The therapist would provide Sally with feedback and suggest what the client might do
in the upcoming week to help improve or solve her problem. Before Sally leaves the therapist will
you a rating scale to grade the progress being made in each session. Sally will verbalize what
needs to be done before her problems are solved and what her next steps will be (Woo & Robinson,
2016)
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
References
Corey, G. (2016). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (10th ed.). 371-392. Boston,
MA: Cengage
Kim, J. S. ., & Franklin, C. (2015). Understanding emotional change in Solution-Focused Brief
Therapy: Facilitating positive emotions.Best Practice in Mental Health,11(1), 25–41. Retrieved
fromhttps://login.regiscollege.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?
direct=true&db=ssf&AN=103534839&site=eds-live
Post2:
LauraBesada
Initial discussion post: Use solution based therapy in the following case study
and use the therapeutic process described in Corey textbook, pg 374.
Case Scenario
Sally is a 35-year-old female who has been in a relationship for the past 2 years. Due to past
relationships where Sally was cheated on, she reports being overly clingy and suspicious of her
current boyfriend’s every move. Sally’s boyfriend has become frustrated with her, stating that she
doesn’t give him any space and that she needs to learn to trust him. Sally is concerned that her
behaviors will destroy their current relationship.
Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) as I understand it is a unique way to assist our client to as the
name implies focus more in how to tackle a problem/reason of their visit rather than the how, why,
when or where things went the proverbial phrase “ the other way”. SFBT is, in my opinion, a
technique to problem-solving the client’s situation. Corey, G. (2016), mentions “Therapists focus on
what is possible, and they have little or no interest in gaining an understanding of how the problem
emerged. Behavior change is viewed as the most effective approach to assisting people in
enhancing their lives”.
SFBT can be used to help Sally overcome her insecurities.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a form of therapy that focuses on identifying and building on a
person's strengths and resources, rather than dwelling on their problems or weaknesses. SFBT can help
Sally shift her focus away from her trust issues and towards building a positive, fulfilling relationship with
her partner.
In SFBT, the therapist would work with Sally to identify specific goals related to managing her trust
issues and building trust in her relationship. The therapist would then help Sally identify her strengths
and resources, such as her ability to communicate effectively, her commitment to the relationship, and
her willingness to seek help and support.
The therapist would then work with Sally to develop a plan for achieving her goals, focusing on small,
achievable steps that can be taken in the present moment. For example, Sally might work on developing
a daily gratitude practice, in which she focuses on things she appreciates about her partner and her
relationship. She might also work on improving her communication skills, such as practicing active
listening and expressing her needs and concerns in a clear and constructive way.
Throughout the therapy process, the therapist would help Sally stay focused on her strengths and
resources, rather than getting bogged down by her trust issues. By emphasizing her positive qualities
and achievements, the therapist would help Sally build a sense of confidence and self-efficacy, which
can be important for overcoming trust issues.
Overall, SFBT can be a helpful approach for Sally in managing her trust issues and building a strong,
healthy relationship with her partner. By focusing on her strengths and resources, and working towards
achievable goals, Sally can make progress towards a more positive and fulfilling future.
In addition to SFBT, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be helpful for Sally in managing her trust
issues. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to
anxiety and other emotional difficulties.
With CBT, Sally would work with a therapist to identify her automatic thoughts and beliefs related to
trust in her relationship, such as "my partner is always lying to me" or "I'll never be able to trust anyone
again". The therapist would then help Sally challenge these thoughts and replace them with more
realistic, balanced thoughts, such as "my partner has been honest with me in the past, so it's likely that
he's being honest now" or "I've been hurt in the past, but that doesn't mean it will happen again."
The therapist would also help Sally develop coping strategies to manage her anxious thoughts and
feelings, such as relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises. Over time, Sally would learn to identify
her negative thought patterns and replace them with more positive, realistic ones, which can help her
build trust and strengthen her relationship with her partner.
It's important to note that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and different approaches may be
more or less effective for different people. Sally may need to try out different types of therapy or a
combination of approaches to find what works best for her. However, with commitment and support,
Sally can overcome her trust issues and build a strong, fulfilling relationship with her partner.
In addition to therapy, Sally can also take some practical steps to help manage her trust issues and build
trust in her relationship. Here are some suggestions:
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
1. Be honest with your partner: If you're feeling anxious or suspicious, let your partner know in a
calm and non-accusatory way. This can help build communication and trust in your relationship.
2. Focus on the positive: Instead of constantly looking for signs of infidelity or dishonesty, try to
focus on the positive aspects of your relationship. Make an effort to appreciate your partner's
good qualities and the things you enjoy doing together.
3. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself can help reduce anxiety and build confidence. Make
sure you're getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities you enjoy.
4. Seek out support: Whether it's a trusted friend, family member, or therapist, it can be helpful to
have someone to talk to about your trust issues and get support and guidance.
5. Work on your own trust issues: It's important to recognize that trust issues often stem from past
experiences or beliefs, and may not be entirely related to your current relationship. Working on
your own personal growth and healing can help you build more trust and confidence in yourself
and others.
By taking these steps, Sally can start to manage her trust issues and build a more positive and fulfilling
relationship with her partner. It's important to remember that building trust takes time and effort, but
with commitment and support, it's possible to overcome trust issues and build a strong, healthy
relationship.
Another useful technique that Sally can try is called mindfulness. Mindfulness involves paying attention
to the present moment, without judgment or distraction, and can help reduce anxiety and increase
feelings of calm and clarity.
Sally can practice mindfulness in many different ways, such as:
1. Meditation: Sitting quietly and focusing on your breath, or using a guided meditation app or
video.
2. Mindful breathing: Taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the sensation of the air entering
and leaving your body.
3. Mindful movement: Practicing yoga, tai chi, or other gentle movement practices that encourage
mindfulness and relaxation.
4. Mindful observation: Taking a few minutes to observe your surroundings, noticing the sights,
sounds, and sensations around you without judgment or distraction.
By practicing mindfulness regularly, Sally can learn to be more present and less reactive to her anxious
thoughts and feelings. This can help her build more trust and confidence in her relationship, as well as in
herself and her ability to handle difficult emotions.
Overall, building trust in a relationship requires patience, commitment, and a willingness to work on
oneself. By combining therapy, practical steps, and mindfulness techniques, Sally can overcome her trust
issues and build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with her partner.
It's also important for Sally to practice self-compassion. Trust issues can be emotionally challenging, and
it's easy to become critical of oneself for struggling with them. Self-compassion involves treating oneself
with kindness and understanding, rather than judgment and criticism.
Sally can practice self-compassion by:
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1. Being kind to herself: Instead of beating herself up for her trust issues, Sally can offer herself
words of kindness and encouragement, such as "It's okay to feel anxious sometimes" or "I'm
doing the best I can."
2. Recognizing common humanity: Sally can remind herself that trust issues are a common
experience, and that many people struggle with them. This can help her feel less alone and
more connected to others.
3. Practicing mindfulness: By being present and non-judgmental with her thoughts and feelings,
Sally can learn to accept them without getting caught up in them.
4. Taking care of herself: Engaging in activities that bring her joy and taking care of her physical and
emotional needs can help Sally feel more grounded and resilient.
By practicing self-compassion, Sally can cultivate a sense of inner strength and resilience that will help
her navigate her trust issues and build a stronger, more loving relationship with her partner.
It's important to remember that building trust takes time and effort, and it's okay to make mistakes
along the way. With patience, support, and a commitment to personal growth, Sally can overcome her
trust issues and create a relationship that is based on trust, love, and mutual respect.
Therapy should be leaned towards Sally’s trust issues and ways to overcome them. Validating her
emotions and fears can be used at the beginning of therapy. Although Sally may believe that her
situation is out of her hand it is important to reassure her that she has the power to come up with the
solution to overcome her fears, insecurities and past experiences. SFBT provides an understanding
that we all have the ability to overcome challenges life brings us, we just need to find our way back
to that state of homeostasis (Corey, 2016). SFBT asks us to look at the other side of things, or the
story itself. For instance, as a therapist we can ask Sally how does she thinks her boyfriend feels?
What would she do if the papers were turned? What changes can be done to make her feel more
reassured about her feelings? Goal setting in solution-focused advising is of primary importance.
Many models of change allow for abstract or vague goals, but in solution-focused therapy, the goals
must be concrete and measurable to be useful (Burg & Mayhall, 2002). Moreover, during therapy
Sally’s goals should be acknowledged and problem-solving ideas should be researched.
SFBT principles can be used to reach a solution. These principles focus on acknowledging the client
in this case Sally has the solutions, we just need to dig deeper. These principles allow the therapist
to use a nonjudgmental approach along with allowing the client to find other avenues if one specific
approach/idea is not working (Solution-focused approach, n.d.).
References
5. Principles - Solution-focused approach. (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://sites.google.com/site/solutionfocusedapproach/5-study-materials/5-principles
Burg, J. E., & Mayhall, J. A. (2002). NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising
- Techniques and Interventions of Solution-Focused Advising / Indiana University-Purdue
University, Fort Wayne. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nacadajournal.org/doi//10.12930/0271-9517-
22.2.79
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Corey, G. (2016). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (10th ed.). 371-392.
Boston, MA: Cengage.
Responses to Posts:
Response 1:
Julia, I have enjoyed reading your post. I agree with you that an emphasis of solution-based
therapy is on the process of developing a future solution rather than the past manifestation of the
problem, with the focus being on identifying past successes and exceptions to the problem, as
well as identifying new and different ways of responding in future efforts to solve problems.
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy will not dive deep into your childhood or explore all the myriad
ways in which your past has influenced your present. Instead, it will root your sessions firmly in
the present while working towards a future in which your current problem or problems have less
of an impact on your life (Psychology Today, n.d.).
The “Brief” in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy is a key component of SFBT. The goal of SFBT
is to find and implement a solution to the problem or problems as soon as possible to minimize
time spent in therapy and, more importantly, time spent struggling or suffering (Gingerich, W.J.,
Kim, J. S., & MacDonald, A. J; 2015).
SFBT is committed to finding realistic, workable solutions for clients as quickly as possible, and
the efficacy of this treatment has influenced its spread around the world and in multiple contexts.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
This form of therapy has been successfully applied in individual, couples, and family therapy.
The problems it can address are wide-ranging, from regular stressors of life to high-impact life
events. The only realm in which SFBT is generally not recommended is that of the more
extremeMmental healthMissues, such as schizophrenia or major depressive disorder (Kim, J.
(2016).
References:
Gingerich, W.J., Kim, J. S., & MacDonald, A. J. (2015).MSolution-Focused Brief Therapy
outcome research.MIn Cynthia Franklin, Terry S. Trepper, Wallace J. Gingerich, & Eric E.
McCollum (Eds),MSolution-Focused Brief Therapy: A handbook of evidence-based practice. New
York: Oxford University Press, pp. 95-111.
Kim, J. (2016). Examining the effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy:MA meta-analysis.
Research on Social Work Practice, 32, 49-64.
Laura Besada
Hello Laura, you are right that SFBT principles can be used to reach a solution. These principles
focus on acknowledging the client. We just need to dig deeper. These principles allow the
therapist to use a nonjudgmental approach along with allowing the client to find other avenues if
one specific approach/idea is not working (Solution-focused approach, n.d.). SFBT is an
evidence-based approach to psychotherapy, which has been studied since the early 1980s.M In
fact, it is one of the few approaches in psychotherapy that began as “evidence-based,” vs.M being
“theory-driven” as most other models were.MOver the course about ten years, a set of
interventions, along with a general clinical style emerged that could best be described as
collegial, collaborative, and focused on solution descriptions — as opposed to more interpretive,
instructive, or confrontive,M and focused on problem description. This inductive approach, rather
than the more common deductive one that led to most other models, led to what is now the
standard practice of SFBT.
SFBT has had a large number of empirical studies, in fact enough to have been examined in two
recent meta-analyses and to be officially supported as evidenced-based by numerous federal and
state agencies and institutions, such as SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-Based
Programs & Practices (Trepper, T. S., & Franlin, C. ; 2016).M
This solution-centric form of therapy grew out of the field ofMfamily therapyMin the 1980s.
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Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) was developed in the 1980s by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim
Berg, who were both family therapists at the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. They
were influenced by the work of other family therapists, such as Milton Erickson and Gregory Bateson, as
well as the research on brief therapy and problem-solving therapy.
SFBT grew out of the belief that focusing on solutions, rather than problems, can lead to more positive
and effective outcomes in therapy. Unlike traditional therapy, which may focus on analyzing the past
and exploring the underlying causes of problems, SFBT is focused on finding practical solutions to
current issues and building on clients' existing strengths and resources.
SFBT is a brief therapy approach, meaning that it typically involves only a few sessions, rather than long-
term therapy. It is often used to help clients who are struggling with specific issues, such as relationship
problems, anxiety, or depression.
SFBT has become increasingly popular in recent years, and has been used in a variety of settings,
including schools, hospitals, and community mental health centers. It is known for its practical, solution-
focused approach, which can help clients achieve positive outcomes quickly and effectively.
In SFBT, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to identify their goals and develop a plan to
achieve those goals. The therapist will ask specific questions that focus on the client's strengths,
resources, and previous successes, rather than dwelling on the problems or challenges.
SFBT is based on several key assumptions, including:
1. Clients have the ability to solve their own problems: SFBT assumes that clients have the skills,
resources, and resilience to find solutions to their problems.
2. Change can happen quickly: SFBT focuses on finding practical solutions that can be implemented
quickly, rather than spending months or years exploring the root causes of problems.
3. Small changes can lead to big results: SFBT encourages clients to make small changes that can
have a big impact on their lives and relationships.
4. Success breeds success: SFBT is focused on building on clients' previous successes and strengths,
rather than focusing on their weaknesses or failures.
Overall, SFBT is a solution-focused, practical therapy approach that can help clients achieve positive
outcomes quickly and effectively. It is a collaborative approach that empowers clients to take an active
role in finding solutions to their problems and building a more positive future.
SFBT is typically structured around several key steps, which may include:
1. Establishing a positive therapeutic relationship: SFBT therapists prioritize building a strong,
collaborative relationship with their clients. This involves creating a safe, supportive
environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
2. Identifying the client's goals: SFBT is focused on helping clients achieve specific goals, so the
therapist will work with the client to identify what they want to achieve from therapy.
GROUP-FACILITATED DISCUSSION ON SOLUTION FOCUSED
3. Focusing on solutions: The therapist will ask specific questions to help the client identify
solutions to their problems. These questions may focus on the client's strengths, resources, and
previous successes, and may involve brainstorming different options for moving forward.
4. Developing an action plan: Once the client has identified a solution that they want to pursue,
the therapist will work with them to develop an action plan. This may involve breaking down the
solution into small, achievable steps, and identifying any potential obstacles or challenges.
5. Evaluating progress: Throughout therapy, the therapist and client will evaluate progress towards
the client's goals. This may involve reflecting on what is working, what isn't working, and making
any necessary adjustments to the action plan.
6. Ending therapy: SFBT is typically a brief therapy approach, and therapy will end once the client
has achieved their goals or made significant progress towards them.
Overall, SFBT is a practical, solution-focused therapy approach that can help clients achieve positive
outcomes quickly and effectively. It is a collaborative approach that empowers clients to take an active
role in finding solutions to their problems and building a more positive future.
Creators Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg noticed that most of the time and energy in
therapy sessions were spent discussing symptoms, issues, and problems (Lipchik, E., Derks, J,
LaCourt, M., & Nunnally, E. ; 2016). De Shazer and Berg saw an opportunity for quicker relief
from negative symptoms in a new form of therapy that emphasized quick, specific problem-
solving rather than an ongoing discussion of the problem itself.
References:
Lipchik, E., Derks, J, LaCourt, M., & Nunnally, E. (2016).MThe evolution of Solution-Focused
Brief Therapy.MIn Cynthia Franklin, Terry S. Trepper, Wallace J. Gingerich, & Eric E.
McCollum (Eds), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: A handbook of evidence-based practice. New
York: Oxford University Press, pp. 3-19.
Trepper, T. S., & Franlin, C. (2016).MThe future of research in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.M .
In Cynthia Franklin, Terry S. Trepper, Wallace J. Gingerich, & Eric E. McCollum
(Eds),MSolution-Focused Brief Therapy: A handbook of evidence-based practice.New York:
Oxford University Press, pp. 405-412.
