What does solution-focused therapy primarily focus on?

Solution-focused therapy primarily emphasizes finding solutions to the client's current problems rather than delving into the underlying causes or historical issues that might be contributing to those problems. This therapeutic approach encourages clients to identify their strengths and resources, promoting a forward-looking perspective rather than focusing on past experiences.

Within solution-focused therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to set specific, achievable goals and to explore exceptions to the problem—times when the issue is less prevalent or not occurring at all. This creates a constructive environment where the client is empowered to envision and enact positive changes.

In contrast to other therapeutic methods that may involve extensive exploration of past behaviors or psychological patterns, solution-focused therapy prioritizes actionable solutions and immediate steps the client can take to improve their situation, making it a unique and practical approach to problem-solving in therapy.