HomeTherapy TypesSolution-Focused Therapy
Therapy Types

Solution-Focused Therapy

Looking forward, not just backward. Solution-focused therapy helps children and teens identify what is already working and build intentionally toward the future they want.

The Future, Not Just the Past

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a goal-directed, forward-looking approach that concentrates on solutions rather than dwelling in-depth on problems. Rather than extensively analyzing how difficulties developed, it focuses on what the person wants their life to look like and what is already moving them in that direction.

This approach is highly collaborative and respectful. The therapist does not assume they know what is best for the child or teen: instead, they help them articulate their own goals and discover the strengths and resources they already have.

Solution-focused therapy can be especially effective for children and teens who find overly reflective or problem-focused approaches discouraging, and for families wanting practical, efficient support. It is often integrated with other approaches at Little Waves.

Solution-focused therapy assumes the person already has the resources they need and the therapist's job is to help them find and use what is already there.

In Practice

Key Solution-Focused Techniques

1
The Miracle Question
Imagining a future where the problem is solved: what does life look like? What would be different? This powerful question opens up a clear picture of what the person is working toward.
2
Scaling Questions
Simple, concrete scales help children and teens track progress, assess where they are, and identify small steps that move them forward.
3
Exploring Exceptions
Finding times when the problem was smaller, less intense, or absent entirely and understanding what was different in those moments.
4
Building on Small Wins
Recognizing and amplifying incremental progress: celebrating what is already working and using it as a foundation for more.
Who May Benefit
  • Children and teens who want practical, goal-focused support
  • Those who find problem-focused approaches discouraging
  • Short-term or time-limited therapy
  • Alongside other approaches for goal-setting and motivation
  • Families wanting concrete progress in fewer sessions
  • Teens building toward specific life goals

Get Started

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