What Is Solution-Focused Therapy?

When life feels challenging, it’s natural to focus on what’s not working. One approach that many find uplifting is Solution-Focused Therapy—a warm, collaborative method that helps you tap into your strengths, clarify your goals, and take small, meaningful steps toward the life you want.

A Therapy That Centers on Possibility and Hope

Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that shifts attention from problems to possibilities. SFT encourages you to explore what’s already working—and how to build on it.

Developed in the 1980s by therapists Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg, this method rests on a hopeful belief: you already have the inner resources to create meaningful change. Therapy becomes a space to uncover those strengths and use them to move forward.

What to Expect in a Session

During sessions, you will:

Set clear goals: Together, we’ll define what you want to see change.
Explore exceptions: We’ll look for times when things felt even a little better—and what helped.
Celebrate strengths: We’ll highlight your unique qualities, skills, and resilience.
Take small steps: We’ll identify what you can try today to move closer to your goals.

Rather than asking “Why is this happening?”, we’ll explore “What would life look like if this wasn’t a problem anymore?”

Why Clients Feel Empowered by This Approach

Clients often share that Solution-Focused Therapy feels:

Collaborative: You and your therapist work as partners in change.
Goal-oriented: Sessions focus on practical steps that move you toward what matters most.
Affirming: We focus on what makes you capable, resourceful, and resilient.
Hopeful: We emphasize possibilities.

How It Can Help in Everyday Life

Whether you’re feeling anxious, stuck in a relationship, overwhelmed by work, or simply unsure of your next step, SFT can help you:

Clarify what you want
Recognize what’s already helping
Build confidence in your ability to cope
Create momentum toward change

For example, if you’re feeling anxious, I might ask:
“Can you remember a time recently when you felt a little more at ease? What was different then?”
Together, we’ll explore those moments and find ways to bring more of them into your life.

Is Solution-Focused Therapy Right for You?

If you’re looking for a therapy that’s gentle, practical, and focused on moving forward, Solution-Focused Therapy might be a great fit. It works well for individuals, couples, and families, and supports a wide range of concerns.