Topic > Solution-Focused Therapies - 1106

Although we didn't have time for the lesson on chapter 15, I found myself intrigued by the information I read about solution-focused therapies. The term solution-focused therapy kept popping up in my lectures, but I really didn't have an exact understanding of what it entailed. In reviewing this chapter, I not only learned a lot, but I also found myself agreeing with much of what I read. While there is no one-size-fits-all therapy, solution-focused therapy has much to offer clients. In many ways, solution-focused therapy reminded me of behaviorism. This is especially true from the perspective of not examining the past. Norcross and Prochaska state in Systems of Psychotherapy: A Transtheoretical Analysis (8th edition): “We can never know the “reality” of personality and psychopathology. There are respected empiricists, such as many behavioral therapists, who reject the entire scope of personality and psychopathology. After a century of research, personality theories have accounted for relatively little of human behavior” (2014, p. 408). In my opinion this is too dichotomous a vision, however in many cases the customer already knows how he got to where he is or is no longer interested in the journey, he simply tries to find solutions to have a better quality of life service. In this case, solution-focused therapy may benefit the client. I really like that this form of therapy doesn't focus on talking about the problem, but instead focuses on talking about the solution. However, the real focus is all on the change and the resources needed to achieve it. The emphasis is on the client's “unique, subjective perspective or self-constructed narrative, as opposed to an objective or consensual reality” (Norcross, p. 406). This…half of the paper…practices are required as proof of effectiveness. Only time will tell whether solution-focused therapy will prove to be an evidence-based practice (Norcross). I'm glad I took the time to read this chapter. I feel like I have a much clearer picture of what solution-focused therapies are and how they work. I see the benefit from both the insurance company and customer perspective. While I don't think this approach is for everyone, I believe that in our fast-paced world, SFBT has much to offer society and that it will become the rule rather than the exception. References: Hutchinson, David. (2012). The essential consultant: process, skills and techniques (2nd ed). Thousand Oaks, CA.: Sage Publications, Inc. Norcross, John C. and Prochaska, James O. (2014). Systems psychotherapy: A transtheoretical analysis (8th ed). Stamford, CT.: Cengage Learning.