What is The Difference Between Solution Focused & Oriented Therapy? | MFT Model Reviews

Summary

In this video, the speaker provides an overview of solution-focused therapy, a practical and goal-oriented approach that focuses on solutions rather than problems. Key concepts include the use of specific intervention techniques, such as the 'skeleton key,' which applies across various therapeutic scenarios. The therapy encourages clients to discuss improvements and progress, shifting away from problem-talk. Therapy concludes when the client’s initial goals are met. The speaker emphasizes a positive, client-driven process where individuals find their own solutions with support, making therapy efficient and empowering.

Takeaways

• 😀 Solution-focused therapy emphasizes identifying what is working and using that as a foundation for further progress.
• 😀 The key intervention tool in solution-focused therapy is the 'formula task,' which encourages clients to use solutions they've found to address various problems.
• 😀 A 'skeleton key' in therapy is another term for a formula task, which can be applied in a variety of therapeutic situations to unlock solutions.
• 😀 Solution-focused therapy focuses on building a positive, solution-oriented conversation with clients, rather than dwelling on problems or stressors.
• 😀 Starting sessions with the question 'What's better since the last time I saw you?' encourages clients to focus on progress and improvement.
• 😀 Unlike traditional therapy that tends to focus on problems and obstacles, solution-focused therapy keeps the conversation forward-looking, focusing on solutions and progress.
• 😀 Therapy is considered complete when the client’s original goals or problems have been resolved, as mutually agreed upon by both therapist and client.
• 😀 Solution-focused therapy encourages clients to identify their own solutions, with the therapist providing support and accountability to help them reach their goals.
• 😀 A solution-focused approach can work effectively for individuals, couples, or families by keeping the focus on solutions rather than difficulties.
• 😀 The video creator emphasizes the simplicity of solution-focused therapy, highlighting the use of three key types of questions to guide the process.
• 😀 Ending therapy is discussed with clients when they have successfully resolved the issues they initially sought therapy for, reinforcing the goal of achieving a better state of life.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of solution-focused therapy?

Solution-focused therapy primarily focuses on identifying and building on solutions rather than analyzing problems. It emphasizes helping clients find practical solutions to their issues and encourages them to recognize improvements and progress.

What is the significance of the 'skeleton key' in therapy?

'Skeleton key' refers to an intervention that can be applied to a variety of situations in therapy. It is often used in solution-focused therapy and provides a flexible approach that can address different client issues, making it a versatile tool.

Why is it important to start therapy sessions by asking, 'What's better since the last time I saw you?'

Starting sessions with this question sets a positive tone and encourages clients to focus on improvements and solutions. It shifts the conversation away from problems and toward recognizing progress, which can foster a more positive and productive dialogue.

How does solution-focused therapy differ from traditional therapy models?

Solution-focused therapy differs from traditional models by focusing on solutions rather than problems. While traditional therapy often explores past issues and obstacles, solution-focused therapy prioritizes what is improving and how to continue that progress.

What are the three main types of questions used in solution-focused therapy?

The three main types of questions in solution-focused therapy are: 1) Questions about what is working and improving, 2) Questions about exceptions (times when the problem is not as severe), and 3) Future-oriented questions (what clients want to see happen). These questions help guide the client toward solutions.

When does therapy end in solution-focused therapy?

Therapy in solution-focused therapy ends when both the therapist and the client agree that the client’s goals have been met and the original issues they came to therapy with have been resolved. This marks the completion of therapy, focusing on achieved improvements.

How does solution-focused therapy encourage client autonomy?

Solution-focused therapy encourages client autonomy by allowing the client to find their own solutions to problems. The therapist provides support and accountability, but the client is in charge of identifying and implementing solutions, promoting independence and empowerment.

Can solution-focused therapy be effective for clients with diverse issues?

Yes, solution-focused therapy is versatile and can be effective for clients with a wide range of issues. By focusing on solutions and progress rather than problems, it helps clients across various situations, from relationship challenges to career changes and more.

What is the role of the therapist in solution-focused therapy?

In solution-focused therapy, the therapist’s role is to facilitate the conversation by asking the right questions, providing support, and holding the client accountable to their goals. The therapist helps the client recognize progress and identify practical steps forward.

How does solution-focused therapy avoid focusing on problems?

Solution-focused therapy avoids focusing on problems by steering the conversation toward what is working and what the client is doing well. The therapist asks questions that highlight improvements, rather than dwelling on challenges, helping the client maintain a positive and goal-oriented mindset.