Solution-Focused Therapy

Solution-focused therapy (SFT) is a collaborative, culturally responsive, evidence-based approach that invites clients to describe what they want from therapy and apply what they already have toward achieving it in the shortest possible time. The therapist asks useful questions, listens closely to clients’ responses, and amplifies aspects of their responses and lives that support their hoped-for outcomes. SFT has been used throughout the world to assist a wide range of clients with challenges that include trauma, relationship problems, social-emotional difficulties, and more. Participants will leave with practical knowledge and tools for helping clients build practical solutions from their strengths, previous successes, and other indigenous resources.

• Set a direction for therapy by identifying what clients want from services.
• Obtain a detailed description of the client’s preferred future.
• Co-construct therapeutic solutions from exceptions to the problem and other indigenous client resources.

John J. Murphy, PhD