Solution-Focused Psychotherapy

Developed in the early 1980s, this brief form of therapy places an emphasis on discussing concrete solutions rather than problems. Instead of spending time dwelling on the past, solution-focused psychotherapy focuses on your goals, and how to change your present and future circumstances to meet those goals. It seeks to find practical solutions to problems as quickly as possible.

A significant benefit of SFT is its flexibility. SFT can be used either on its own or adapted to fit into a variety of different modalities, such as psychodynamic approaches or cognitive behavioral therapies. SFT helps you develop your own realistic goals, and your therapist will assist you in reaching those goals with solutions that you collaboratively discover. Research has shown SFT to be especially helpful with youths, families, and relationships. SFT is not typically used by itself for severe mental health struggles, but may be combined with other approaches to help reduce negative symptoms.