Mixed EvidenceBrief therapyStrengths-based

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy(SFBT)

Last evidence review: January 20265 printable resources

Showing plain-language explanations suitable for anyone.

Overview

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy is a goal-oriented, strengths-based therapy that emphasises future possibilities and existing resources rather than problem analysis. It focuses on what the person wants to achieve rather than what went wrong.

What this therapy focuses on

Identifying what works and building on it. SFBT trusts clients’ competence and focuses on exceptions to problems — times when the problem is less present or absent.

What sessions are usually like

Session length: 45–60 minutes

Frequency: Variable (often with longer gaps between sessions)

Time-limited: Yes (often 1–6 sessions)

Future-focused and collaborative

Session profile

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Frequency: Variable
Typical course: 1–6 sessions
Between sessions: Noticing exceptions, small experiments

Common uses and suitability

What problems it is commonly used for

Mild to moderate difficultiesCoaching and performance contextsSchool and family settingsAdjustment problemsBrief intervention contexts

Who this therapy may suit best

  • People wanting brief, practical support
  • Those with clear goals
  • Individuals with existing strengths and resources to build on

When it may need adapting or may not be suitable

  • Severe mental illness requiring structured treatment
  • Complex trauma without stabilisation
  • Where detailed formulation is needed

Where this therapy may not be enough

SFBT is not indicated for severe mental illness, complex trauma, or conditions with specific evidence-based treatments.

What happens in therapy

Miracle Question

Imagining that the problem is solved overnight — what would be different? This helps clarify what you actually want.

Scaling Questions

Rating where you are on a 0–10 scale, and exploring what would move you one point up.

Exception Finding

Looking for times when the problem was less present and understanding what was different.

Evidence Base

Guideline support

Limited; not a NICE-recommended standalone treatment for specific mental health conditions.

Strength of evidence

Mixed. Meta-analyses show small to moderate effects. Most effective for selected problems and contexts.

Limitations

Evidence base is limited for specific mental health diagnoses. Most effective as a brief adjunct or in non-clinical settings.

Evidence claims by condition

VariousMixed EvidenceAdults and children

SFBT can help with a range of difficulties, especially when people have clear goals and existing strengths.

Resources & Printables

For Adults

Miracle Question Worksheet

A guided worksheet for the miracle question exercise.

PDF
Scaling Questions Sheet

A practical scaling tool for tracking progress.

PDF

For Children (6–11)

Goal Ladder Worksheet

A child-friendly goal-setting tool.

PDF

For Parents & Caregivers

Strengths-Based Support Guide

A guide for parents on using solution-focused approaches at home.

PDF

For Professionals

SFBT Session Guide

A session structure guide for practitioners.

PDF

Practitioner & Training Notes

Typical professional background

Counsellors, therapists, social workers, and other helping professionals.

Recognised training routes

SFBT training through specialist training organisations. No single accrediting body.

Registration considerations

Practitioners typically registered with broader counselling/therapy bodies.

Source Registry

Last evidence review: January 2026. All sources are verified and checked on a scheduled cadence.