What does solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) primarily focus on?

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) primarily focuses on solutions and future outcomes, making it a future-oriented approach rather than one that dwells extensively on problems or past experiences. The core principle of SFBT is to explore what clients want to achieve in their lives rather than digging deep into their problems or past traumas. This method emphasizes building upon clients' strengths and resources to create a vision of a desired future, helping them to develop actionable steps toward that future.

Therapists utilizing SFBT engage clients in conversations that highlight their goals, exceptions to their problems, and what positive changes they want to see. By concentrating on solutions and possibilities, SFBT encourages a sense of agency and empowerment within clients, fostering hope and motivation for change in a relatively short time frame. This approach is particularly effective for those who may feel overwhelmed by their issues, as it redirects focus towards achievable outcomes and helps clients recognize their capacity for change.