Solution-Focused Therapy

As the name suggests, this approach to therapy seeks to move towards a future-orientation, not getting weighed down by the details of why a particular problem may have begun or what is maintaining it. Rather, what is of the utmost importance in this approach is how the problem can be fixed. What solutions can we generate to the problem at hand? 
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Of course, this is not to say that discussing the origin of the problem is completely eradicated. The problem needs to be understood in order to work towards potential solutions. However, solution-focused therapy does not dwell on the past as much as it looks towards the future; specifically, a future without the problem. To do this, one of the main treatment interventions within solution-focused therapy is aimed at finding “exceptions” to the problem, or times when the problem did not exist or was not causing the toll it is currently causing to the sufferer. 
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Logically, to find a lasting solution, it makes sense to revisit times when the problem did not exist or did not exact a detrimental toll and discover what was different about this period¹. What exceptions existed that relegated the problem to a lower status? In conjunction, it is important to be aware that most people, whether knowingly or not, have successfully solved countless problems in the past, some even of a similar nature to the one they are currently struggling with. By reflecting on previous solutions to the problem, individuals can become aware of times they have previously successfully overcame it or one like it².
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By emphasizing the strengths and resources of clients that they already possess, solution-focused therapy is a hopeful, future-oriented approach that trusts in the capability of individuals to solve their problems and achieve their goals³. As a proponent of solution-focused therapy, I would work collaboratively with clients to co-construct their desired solutions. This would be done by drawing on their previous successes and strengths rather than unraveling the root causes of their issues. At all times, the client will be viewed as the expert of their own life³.