SFBT

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

Build on what already works, in fewer sessions

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg, spends less time on the history of problems and more on the future you want. Couples identify times things already go well and do more of what works.

Best for

Couples who want short-term, focused help
Partners who feel drained by rehashing the past
Relationships with real strengths that feel buried
A clear, specific goal you want to move toward

How it works

Therapists use tools like the miracle question, scaling questions, and exception-finding to clarify your goals and spot what is already working, then build small, concrete steps from there.

What to expect

Often fewer sessions than other approaches. Conversations are hopeful and future-focused, and you will usually leave each session with a small step to try.

Widely used across counseling settings, with a growing research base supporting its brief, strengths-based approach.

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