Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Rather than focusing on the cause of a person’s concerns, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) focuses on the outcome of treatment.
Focusing on the Future
SFBT was developed in the 70s as an expansion of other psychotherapies. The goal of SFBT is to help patients envision a life free of their mental health concerns. It’s a goal-oriented approach that prioritizes the solution rather than the cause. Clients create their own mental health goals, and determine whether they have reached them. The therapist’s role is to guide them along this journey and to teach the client the means to achieve their goals.
SFBT is an evidence-based approach, proven to help treat:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Family and marital disputes
- Addiction
- Behavioral issues
This strength-based method not only gives clients more hope for the future, but allows them to take a deeper look at where they are and where they are capable of being.
The Three Questions of SFBT
Like other therapy techniques, such as motivational interviewing, SFBT has empowerment and affirmation at its core. Therapists will ask their clients three types of questions that encourage them to create their own positive solutions.
MIRACLE QUESTIONS
If a miracle occurred overnight that suddenly took away all of your pain, how would you know? Considering this question helps the client think about the subtle things that bring them joy.
SCALING QUESTIONS
Here, the therapist asks the client to rate certain feelings on a scale of 1-10, and identify what, precisely, is different between each point. This helps the client understand which small changes already improve their wellbeing.
EXCEPTIONS
These questions ask about exceptions to the pain the client feels—what is different about those good days versus the bad ones? Exceptions help individuals see the larger, more tangible actions they can take to heal.
What We Treat
If you are struggling with your mental health, substance abuse, or both, we are here to help you regain control over your life. Our inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs are designed to treat a wide variety of mental, behavioral, and co-occurring disorders in a comfortable setting.
Mental Health
We diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health disorders, including trauma effects, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and codependency.
Addiction
Substance use disorders we treat include addiction to alcohol, opiates, fentanyl and prescription opioids, methamphetamine and other stimulants, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and other psychoactive substances.
Other Behavioral Health Concerns
A mental health crisis can be layered and confusing. If you don’t see your disorder listed—or don’t know exactly why you are struggling—reach out to us to see how we can help. We treat each client at Sequoia on a personal level, and we’re ready to help you overcome whatever you may be facing.
Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
Our experienced, compassionate team is here for you. Reach out to us today by calling us or scheduling a conversation at a time that works for you. All information will be kept private and confidential.
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