I'm often asked what type of counseling I provide. Over the past 15 years, I have learned some amazing therapeutic interventions but the one that stands out to me as the most empowering and yielding the best results is Solution-focused counseling. Solution-focused counseling is an approach to therapy that emphasizes a person's strengths and resources rather than their problems and weaknesses.
Here are some of the highlights of it and how it might be helpful for you or someone you know.
Focus on Solutions: Solution-focused counseling emphasizes finding solutions to problems rather than dwelling on the problems themselves. The therapist encourages the client to identify their strengths, resources, and what has worked for them in the past, and use these to create solutions for the future. Do you know your strengths? I believe when we work with them we really come to life. If you would like to take a free test to identify your top five strengths try this https://high5test.com/
Goal-Oriented: The therapist helps the client to identify specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. This creates a sense of direction and purpose, which helps the client stay motivated and focused.
Positive Language: Solution-focused counseling emphasizes positive language and reframing problems as opportunities for growth and change. This helps the client to shift their perspective and see the possibilities for positive change.
Collaborative: The therapist works collaboratively with the client, rather than being an expert who tells the client what to do. This empowers the client and helps them take ownership of their own growth and development.
Short-Term: Solution-focused counseling is often a short-term approach, with a focus on achieving goals in a relatively short period of time. This can be helpful for individuals who want to make changes quickly and see results.
Sound like something that can work for you? Whether is overcoming negative thinking, changing a behaviour, or living life more fully solution-focused approaches assist you in embracing your strengths, focusing on what you can change, and looking forward rather than backward. Give it a try.