Understanding

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a short-term, goal-focused therapeutic approach developed in the late 1970s by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. Rather than analyzing problems or their origins, SFBT centers on building solutions and harnessing clients’ strengths to create positive change.

Line drawing of a person's face in profile, emphasizing facial features and contours.
Abstract image with soft gradients of cream and green, creating a calm and airy atmosphere.

How This Therapy Works

SFBT sessions focus on identifying what is already working in a client’s life and envisioning a preferred future. Therapists use techniques like the “miracle question,” scaling questions, and exception-seeking to help clients set clear, realistic goals and recognize their own resources. The therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding conversations toward solutions and small, achievable steps, rather than dwelling on problems or the past.

Is It Right for Me?

SFBT is suitable for individuals seeking practical, future-oriented change in a short period. It works well for those motivated to set and achieve goals, and for anyone who prefers focusing on strengths and solutions rather than in-depth problem analysis. This approach is effective across a wide range of issues and is adaptable for most people.

Real-Life Benefits
of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

  • Quick, tangible progress toward personal goals

  • Increased confidence by building on existing strengths

  • Improved problem-solving and coping skills

  • Reduced feelings of being “stuck”

  • Enhanced hope and motivation for the future

Understanding

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a short-term, goal-focused therapeutic approach developed in the late 1970s by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. Rather than analyzing problems or their origins, SFBT centers on building solutions and harnessing clients’ strengths to create positive change.

Line drawing of a person's face in profile, emphasizing facial features and contours.
Abstract image with soft gradients of cream and green, creating a calm and airy atmosphere.

How This Therapy Works

SFBT sessions focus on identifying what is already working in a client’s life and envisioning a preferred future. Therapists use techniques like the “miracle question,” scaling questions, and exception-seeking to help clients set clear, realistic goals and recognize their own resources. The therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding conversations toward solutions and small, achievable steps, rather than dwelling on problems or the past.

Is It Right for Me?

SFBT is suitable for individuals seeking practical, future-oriented change in a short period. It works well for those motivated to set and achieve goals, and for anyone who prefers focusing on strengths and solutions rather than in-depth problem analysis. This approach is effective across a wide range of issues and is adaptable for most people.

Real-Life Benefits
of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

  • Quick, tangible progress toward personal goals

  • Increased confidence by building on existing strengths

  • Improved problem-solving and coping skills

  • Reduced feelings of being “stuck”

  • Enhanced hope and motivation for the future

Understanding

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a short-term, goal-focused therapeutic approach developed in the late 1970s by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. Rather than analyzing problems or their origins, SFBT centers on building solutions and harnessing clients’ strengths to create positive change.

Abstract image with soft gradients of cream and green, creating a calm and airy atmosphere.

How This Therapy Works

SFBT sessions focus on identifying what is already working in a client’s life and envisioning a preferred future. Therapists use techniques like the “miracle question,” scaling questions, and exception-seeking to help clients set clear, realistic goals and recognize their own resources. The therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding conversations toward solutions and small, achievable steps, rather than dwelling on problems or the past.

Is It Right for Me?

SFBT is suitable for individuals seeking practical, future-oriented change in a short period. It works well for those motivated to set and achieve goals, and for anyone who prefers focusing on strengths and solutions rather than in-depth problem analysis. This approach is effective across a wide range of issues and is adaptable for most people.

Real-Life Benefits
of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

  • Quick, tangible progress toward personal goals

  • Increased confidence by building on existing strengths

  • Improved problem-solving and coping skills

  • Reduced feelings of being “stuck”

  • Enhanced hope and motivation for the future

Let's find your perfect therapist.

Let's find your perfect therapist.

Let's find your perfect therapist.

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Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.

Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.

Logo for Manchester Counselling – in-person and online therapy service
Logo for Manchester Counselling – in-person and online therapy service