What Does the Research Say About Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?

Over the past decade, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) has seen significant growth in empirical research, solidifying its role as a widely studied and evidence-based therapeutic approach. Originally developed as a brief, strengths-based intervention centered on goal-setting and future-oriented dialogue, SFBT has now been applied across diverse clinical, educational, forensic, and medical settings. Research has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in improving mental health, reducing distress, and enhancing problem-solving skills across a broad spectrum of populations.

This review synthesizes key developments from the past ten years, reflecting the tremendous expansion of SFBT research and its increasing validation through high-quality studies. Findings from meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) underscore its efficiency, adaptability, and broad applicability—from treating depression and substance use to supporting individuals with chronic illness and fostering resilience in schools.

SFBT: An Evidence-Based Approach to Psychotherapy

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy. Unlike many other therapeutic models that are primarily theory-driven, SFBT is empirically derived, meaning it is based on real-world observations rather than theoretical ideas. The approach is focused on goal-directed collaboration with clients in both its construct and practice.

• In construct, SFBT is built upon a framework derived from observing what actually works in therapy. Rather than being based on abstract theories, it is shaped by the findings from real therapy sessions and the direct observations made during those sessions.
• In practice, the approach focuses on what therapists can observe and use in real therapy situations. The technique is applied directly by asking clients carefully crafted questions, guiding the therapy based on how the client responds and what brings progress toward their stated goals.

SFBT was one of the few therapeutic approaches that began as evidence-based because its developers, Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg, spent extensive time observing real-life therapy sessions. They meticulously noted the words or behaviors by therapists that led to progress, and those actions were integrated into the model. Meanwhile, techniques that did not result in positive outcomes were discarded (Lipchik, Derks, LaCourt, & Nunnally, 2012). This empirical, observational foundation sets SFBT apart from many other models that start with a theoretical framework and then try to apply it in practice.

SFBT research is poised for continued expansion, building on the substantial growth of the past decade. Ongoing studies will further validate its effectiveness by examining long-term outcomes, advancing digital adaptations, and expanding its reach to underrepresented populations. As its evidence base strengthens, SFBT remains a solution-oriented and empirically supported approach. It continues to meet the growing demand for brief, compassionate, and effective interventions across transdisciplinary fields, including mental health, education, restorative justice, social services, healthcare, coaching, organizational leadership, child welfare, crisis intervention, and community development.

Meta-Analyses and Systematic Reviews: Strongest Empirical Support

Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (2024)

1. Objective:

• This umbrella review synthesizes evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) across various populations, issues, and settings.

2. Methodology:

• 25 systematic reviews (including 15 meta-analyses) were analyzed.
• Reviews were included if they focused on the effectiveness of SFBT as a therapeutic approach, used systematic search methods, and included quality assessments.

3. Key Findings:

• Overall Effectiveness: SFBT demonstrated positive outcomes across a wide range of issues and populations, with no evidence of harm.
• High Confidence: SFBT showed high confidence in its effectiveness in treating depression, overall mental health, and progress toward individual goals in adults.
• Moderate Confidence: Evidence for effectiveness was moderate for various outcomes, such as internalizing issues, social problems, medical aspects, self-aspects, and hope, across both adults and children.
• Cultural Contexts: No significant difference in confidence between Western and Eastern studies, though Eastern studies focused more on different aspects.
• Treatment Format: SFBT was effective in both group and individual therapy formats. Group therapy was more common in Eastern studies.

4. Study Quality and Limitations:

• Low Confidence in Quality: 80% of the included reviews had critical flaws, resulting in low or critically low confidence in the findings.
• Methodological Issues: Many studies lacked comprehensive quality assessments, and there were inconsistencies in reporting study design and outcomes.
• Moderate Confidence in Findings: Despite these issues, moderate confidence was found in SFBT’s effectiveness for a range of issues.

5. Future Research Directions:

• More Rigorous Methodology: Future research should focus on improving study designs, particularly with randomization and active controls, to better assess SFBT’s comparative effectiveness.
• Comparing Active Treatments: More studies comparing SFBT with other established therapeutic approaches are needed to understand its relative effectiveness.
• Focused Studies on Externalizing Issues: There is a need for more studies focused specifically on externalizing issues, such as aggression or substance use.

6. Clinical Implications:

• High Confidence for Adults: SFBT is recommended as an effective therapy for depression, mental health, and goal progression in adults.
• Broader Application: SFBT can be applied effectively for a range of issues across all age groups, including internalizing disorders, social and medical issues, self-esteem, and goal achievement.
• Therapy Format: A higher number of core elements in therapy (more than four) is recommended for greater effectiveness.

7. Conclusion:

• SFBT is an effective therapeutic approach with strong evidence for treating a variety of psychological, social, and medical issues.
• While more research is needed, especially on externalizing issues, the review supports SFBT as a viable and effective treatment option, particularly for adults and common issues like depression and mental health.
• The review calls for more methodologically rigorous studies and comprehensive reporting to strengthen the evidence base for SFBT.

Reference:
Żak, A. M., & Pękala, K. (2024). Effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Psychotherapy Research, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2024.2406540

1. Purpose and Scope:

   • This meta-analysis examines the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) on psychosocial outcomes, expanding on previous studies.
   • It explores how various participant, intervention, and study characteristics influence SFBT’s effectiveness.

2. Key Findings:

   • Overall Effectiveness: SFBT demonstrates a large effect (g = 1.17) on improving psychosocial functioning, indicating significant positive outcomes.
   • Contextual Variations: Larger effects were found in non-clinical samples (g = 1.50) compared to clinical samples (g = 0.78). Similarly, couples showed significantly larger benefits (g = 3.02), especially in marital functioning.
   • Control Group Impact: Studies with no treatment control groups showed larger effects (g = 1.59) compared to studies with treatment-as-usual (TAU) control groups (g = 0.58).
   • Group vs. Individual Therapy: Group therapy was more effective (g = 1.64) than individual therapy (g = 0.48).
   • Global Application: SFBT was effective across multiple continents and settings, particularly in community-based and school/university environments, with studies from the Middle East showing particularly large effects.

3. Moderator Analyses:

   • Intervention Target: Larger effects were seen in well-being (g = 1.74) and marital functioning (g = 3.02).
   • Participant Characteristics: No significant differences were found between age (youth vs. adults) and gender, but SFBT was more effective for non-clinical populations and in group settings.
   • Settings and Modality: SFBT worked particularly well in community-based settings (g = 2.17) compared to educational or clinical settings.
   • Time and Follow-Up: The effect size was slightly larger in post-test measurements (g = 1.23) compared to follow-up (g = 1.03), with time after baseline reducing the effectiveness.

4. Publication Bias:

   • The analysis revealed some indications of publication bias, with unpublished studies reporting much smaller effect sizes than published studies.

5. Study Limitations:

   • Data Gaps: Some variables, such as therapist training in SFBT and socio-economic background, were insufficiently reported, limiting the moderator analyses.
   • Cultural Differences: Studies from non-Western countries may be underrepresented, potentially affecting the results related to cultural and ethnic variations.

6. Recommendations for Future Research:

   • Improved reporting on participant characteristics, intervention targets, and study designs to enable more robust moderator analyses.
   • Registering primary studies prior to implementation to better assess publication bias.
   • Further research is needed on the effectiveness of SFBT in family and social functioning and across different treatment modalities like family therapy and online therapy.

7. Conclusion:

   • SFBT is an effective intervention with broad applicability across different populations and psychosocial problems, especially when targeting marital functioning and well-being.
   • Future research should focus on addressing gaps in the data, especially regarding cultural differences and therapist training, to refine the understanding of SFBT’s full potential.

Reference:
Vermeulen-Oskam, A., et al. (2024). The current evidence of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: A meta-analysis of psychosocial outcomes and moderating factors. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 71(1), 23-45.

1. Objective:

• To provide a global perspective on the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) by analyzing 251 outcome studies conducted worldwide across different intervention contexts.

2. Methodology:

• A systematic literature search identified 251 outcome studies on SFBT.
• Variables analyzed included intervention type, format, manualization, diagnosis, and comparison groups.
• Studies were coded and categorized based on scientific design, comparison groups, and dependent variables.
• The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis.

3. Key Findings:

• Global Effectiveness: SFBT was found to be effective in 86.3% of the studies, with positive outcomes in a variety of settings, including psychotherapy, coaching, school counseling, and community interventions.
• Study Design: SFBT showed superior results in most studies, especially in quasi-experimental studies (89.2%) and single case studies (100%). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found SFBT superior in 72.5% of the studies.
• Comparison Groups: SFBT was most effective when compared to no treatment, waitlist, or placebo controls. It was less effective compared to alternative treatments (37.5% superiority).
• Intervention Formats: Group interventions yielded more positive outcomes (92.8% superiority) compared to individual interventions (81.1%).
• Manualization and Diagnosis: Manualized SFBT interventions showed fewer inferior or mixed outcomes compared to non-manualized interventions. SFBT interventions were more effective when the sample was not diagnosed with a mental health condition (94.8% superior vs. 60% in diagnosed samples).

4. Study Features:

• Intervention Type: Most interventions were classified as psychotherapy (57.5%), followed by coaching (16.7%), and school counseling (14.7%).
• Intervention Format: The majority were individual interventions (50%), with group interventions (33%) and family or couple interventions accounting for less than 10%.
• Sample: The studies included a wide range of sample types, both diagnosed and non-diagnosed, from diverse intervention settings across various cultures.

5. Study Limitations:

• Missing Data: Many studies lacked information on key variables, such as the number of sessions or follow-up data.
• Study Design: Despite the high number of RCTs, many studies still relied on weak comparators, such as waitlist or no-treatment controls, which may limit the strength of conclusions.

6. Future Research Directions:

• Further Studies in Non-Western Contexts: More research is needed in non-Western countries to further explore SFBT’s effectiveness.
• Integration with Other Approaches: Direct comparisons between “pure” SFBT and integrative approaches are needed to understand the impact of combining SFBT with other therapeutic techniques.
• Longer Follow-Up: More studies with long-term follow-ups are needed to assess the durability of SFBT’s effects.

7. Clinical Implications:

• Broad Applicability: SFBT is effective in a wide range of settings, from schools to psychotherapy, making it a versatile therapeutic approach.
• Improved Outcomes with Group Interventions: Group interventions tend to yield better outcomes, suggesting they may be more effective in certain contexts.
• Use of Manualized Interventions: Manualized SFBT interventions may reduce the risk of negative results, ensuring more consistent outcomes.

8. Conclusion:

• The study supports the global effectiveness of SFBT, with the majority of studies showing positive results across different populations and contexts.
• While SFBT is highly effective compared to no-treatment or waitlist groups, its performance in comparison with alternative treatments shows more mixed results.
• The review highlights the need for future research to explore the integration of SFBT with other approaches and to conduct studies in non-Western contexts.

Reference:
Neipp, M. C., & Beyebach, M. (2022). The global outcomes of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: A revision. Psychotherapy Research, 32(2), 220-235.

1. Purpose of the Review:

• The article provides a systematic review of research on the processes involved in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
• It examines how and why SFBT works, focusing on specific techniques and processes that contribute to its effectiveness.

2. Methodology:

• 33 studies were reviewed using a meta-summary approach.
• The review incorporated quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method designs to evaluate the therapeutic processes and techniques that drive change in SFBT.

3. Key Findings:

• Co-construction of Meaning: Central to SFBT’s effectiveness, this process involves the therapist and client collaboratively creating new meanings to facilitate change.
• Strengths-Oriented Techniques: Techniques focusing on client strengths (e.g., scaling questions, exception questions) were found to have the most empirical support.
• Linguistic Techniques: Positive language and the collaborative use of language in SFBT were significant for therapeutic change.
• Future-Oriented Techniques: Techniques such as the miracle question and goal-setting were effective in fostering positive outcomes.
• Therapeutic Relationship: Although important, the therapeutic relationship and therapist style were less frequently associated with positive outcomes compared to techniques focusing on strengths and co-construction.

4. Study Quality and Limitations:

• The studies were diverse in design, but only 36% used experimental designs.
• Many studies had small sample sizes, limiting generalizability.
• Research quality varied, with a need for further studies to establish stronger causal links between therapeutic processes and outcomes.

5. Future Research Directions:

• Future research should focus on replicating findings with larger samples and improved study designs.
• There is a need for more attention on how the co-construction process relates directly to client outcomes, particularly in randomized controlled trials.

6. Clinical Implications:

• The review emphasizes the importance of integrating strengths-oriented techniques into SFBT practice.
• SFBT educators and supervisors should focus on teaching the co-construction process and linguistic techniques to improve clinical competence.

7. Conclusion:

• SFBT techniques, especially those targeting client strengths and co-construction, have strong empirical support.
• The review highlights the need for further research to confirm these findings and explore the direct link between therapeutic processes and outcomes, particularly in treating internalizing disorders and family-related issues.

1. Objective:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in medical settings, specifically its impact on health-related psychosocial, behavioral, and functional health outcomes.

2. Methodology:

• Search Strategy: A comprehensive search across five electronic databases, journals, professional websites, and references of included articles led to nine studies eligible for meta-analysis.
• Data Analysis: Effect sizes for psychosocial, behavioral, and functional health outcomes were calculated using Hedges’ g. The Q statistic tested for homogeneity, and publication bias was assessed with a funnel plot and sensitivity analysis.

3. Key Findings:

• Psychosocial Outcomes: SFBT demonstrated a significant positive effect on psychosocial outcomes (d = 0.34, p < .05). Patients receiving SFBT showed improved mental health and social well-being.
• Behavioral Outcomes: SFBT showed a positive trend toward improving health-related behaviors (d = 0.28, p = .06), though the results were not statistically significant.
• Functional Health Outcomes: SFBT had no significant effect on functional health outcomes (d = 0.21, p = .13), suggesting it does not directly impact physical health conditions like BMI or strength.

4. Study Features:

• Demographics: Participants’ ages ranged from 7.4 to 43.46 years, with an average age of 22.95 years. Around 48% of participants were male, and 52% female.
• Setting: Most studies were conducted in outpatient healthcare settings, particularly focusing on obesity (5 studies), with others targeting fatigue management, work rehabilitation, and burn rehabilitation.
• SFBT Techniques: Common techniques included goal setting, solution talk, and future-oriented questions.

5. Study Limitations:

• Small Sample Sizes: Several studies had small sample sizes, which limited statistical power, especially in studies with fewer than 100 participants.
• Lack of Long-Term Follow-Up: Short follow-up periods may have impacted the ability to assess long-term effects, particularly for behavioral and functional health outcomes.

6. Publication Bias:

• No significant publication bias was detected. Analysis of funnel plots and sensitivity tests showed that publication bias did not affect the overall treatment effects in psychosocial and behavioral outcomes, although there was a slight indication of under-reporting in functional health outcomes.

7. Conclusions:

• Effectiveness: SFBT is effective for improving psychosocial outcomes in medical settings and shows promise for enhancing health-related behaviors. However, it was not found to significantly affect functional health outcomes.
• Implications for Practice: Given its positive effects on psychosocial and behavioral outcomes, healthcare providers should consider incorporating SFBT into their practice, particularly in primary care and outpatient settings.
• Future Research: Future studies should include larger sample sizes, investigate the mechanisms through which SFBT impacts health-related outcomes, and explore its application in other medical settings, such as managing substance use or improving medication compliance.

8. Limitations:

• The review only included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which may exclude other valuable data from quasi-experimental or non-experimental studies.
• Only studies published in English were included, which may limit the comprehensiveness of the review.

9. Recommendations for Future Research:

• Larger Studies: Future research should include larger studies to provide more robust evidence of SFBT’s impact.
• Mechanism of Change: Further exploration is needed into how changes in psychosocial and behavioral outcomes might indirectly improve physical health.
• Other Outcomes: Future studies could investigate additional outcomes, such as reductions in substance use or improvements in chronic illness management.

10. Conclusion:

• This systematic review and meta-analysis provide strong evidence supporting SFBT as an effective intervention for improving psychosocial outcomes in medical settings. Although further research is needed, the findings suggest that SFBT is a promising tool for enhancing patients’ behavioral health and can be effectively integrated into healthcare practice.

Reference:
Zhang, X., et al. (2018). The effectiveness of strength-based, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in medical settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 41(5), 641-658.

1. Objective:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in medical settings, specifically its impact on health-related psychosocial, behavioral, and functional health outcomes.

2. Methodology:

• Search Strategy: A comprehensive search across five electronic databases, journals, professional websites, and references of included articles led to nine studies eligible for meta-analysis.
• Data Analysis: Effect sizes for psychosocial, behavioral, and functional health outcomes were calculated using Hedges’ g. The Q statistic tested for homogeneity, and publication bias was assessed with a funnel plot and sensitivity analysis.

3. Key Findings:

• Psychosocial Outcomes: SFBT demonstrated a significant positive effect on psychosocial outcomes (d = 0.34, p < .05). Patients receiving SFBT showed improved mental health and social well-being.
• Behavioral Outcomes: SFBT showed a positive trend toward improving health-related behaviors (d = 0.28, p = .06), though the results were not statistically significant.
• Functional Health Outcomes: SFBT had no significant effect on functional health outcomes (d = 0.21, p = .13), suggesting it does not directly impact physical health conditions like BMI or strength.

4. Study Features:

• Demographics: Participants’ ages ranged from 7.4 to 43.46 years, with an average age of 22.95 years. Around 48% of participants were male, and 52% female.
• Setting: Most studies were conducted in outpatient healthcare settings, particularly focusing on obesity (5 studies), with others targeting fatigue management, work rehabilitation, and burn rehabilitation.
• SFBT Techniques: Common techniques included goal setting, solution talk, and future-oriented questions.

5. Study Limitations:

• Small Sample Sizes: Several studies had small sample sizes, which limited statistical power, especially in studies with fewer than 100 participants.
• Lack of Long-Term Follow-Up: Short follow-up periods may have impacted the ability to assess long-term effects, particularly for behavioral and functional health outcomes.

6. Publication Bias:

• No significant publication bias was detected. Analysis of funnel plots and sensitivity tests showed that publication bias did not affect the overall treatment effects in psychosocial and behavioral outcomes, although there was a slight indication of under-reporting in functional health outcomes.

7. Conclusions:

• Effectiveness: SFBT is effective for improving psychosocial outcomes in medical settings and shows promise for enhancing health-related behaviors. However, it was not found to significantly affect functional health outcomes.
• Implications for Practice: Given its positive effects on psychosocial and behavioral outcomes, healthcare providers should consider incorporating SFBT into their practice, particularly in primary care and outpatient settings.
• Future Research: Future studies should include larger sample sizes, investigate the mechanisms through which SFBT impacts health-related outcomes, and explore its application in other medical settings, such as managing substance use or improving medication compliance.

8. Limitations:

• The review only included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which may exclude other valuable data from quasi-experimental or non-experimental studies.
• Only studies published in English were included, which may limit the comprehensiveness of the review.

9. Recommendations for Future Research:

• Larger Studies: Future research should include larger studies to provide more robust evidence of SFBT’s impact.
• Mechanism of Change: Further exploration is needed into how changes in psychosocial and behavioral outcomes might indirectly improve physical health.
• Other Outcomes: Future studies could investigate additional outcomes, such as reductions in substance use or improvements in chronic illness management.

10. Conclusion:

• This systematic review and meta-analysis provide strong evidence supporting SFBT as an effective intervention for improving psychosocial outcomes in medical settings. Although further research is needed, the findings suggest that SFBT is a promising tool for enhancing patients’ behavioral health and can be effectively integrated into healthcare practice.

Reference:
Zhang, X., et al. (2018). The effectiveness of strength-based, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in medical settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 41(5), 641-658.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for Substance-Using Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study (2018)

Objective

This study examined the effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) intervention on substance abuse and trauma-related problems.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of SFBT in primary substance use treatment services for child welfare involved parents in outpatient treatment for substance use disorders. Mixed linear models were used to test within- and between-group changes using intent-to-treat analysis (N = 64). Hedges’s g effect sizes were also calculated to examine the magnitude of treatment effects.

Results

Both groups decreased on the Addiction Severity Index-Self-Report and the Trauma Symptom Checklist-40. The between-group effect sizes were not statistically significant on either measure, thus, SFBT produced similar results as the research-supported treatments the control group received.

Conclusion

Results support the use of SFBT in treating substance use and trauma and provide an alternative approach that is more strengths-based and less problem-focused.

Reference:
Kim, J. S., Brook, J., & Akin, B. (2018). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with substance-using individuals: A randomized controlled trial study. Substance Use & Misuse, 53(4), 583-592.

• Examined SFBT’s effectiveness in school settings across different cultural contexts, demonstrating its adaptability and relevance.
• Found that students in both U.S. and East Asian settings reported increased hope, emotional well-being, and improved problem-solving skills.
• Identified no significant differences in effectiveness between cultural groups, reinforcing SFBT’s global applicability in educational interventions.

Reference:
Park, J., et al. (2024). Comparing the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for adolescent outcomes in schools between the U.S. and East Asian studies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Educational Psychology Review, 36(1), 88-110.

This study explores the effectiveness of Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in reducing offending behaviors among children and young people (CYP) aged 10–17 who are referred to Liaison and Diversion (L&D) teams in England after being taken into police custody. L&D teams typically focus on assessing and diverting young people from the criminal justice system, but have not historically provided psychological interventions. This trial compares two groups: one receiving standard services (SAU) plus SFBT, and the other receiving SAU alone. The primary outcome is a reduction in offending behaviors, measured through the Self-Report Delinquency Measure (SRDM) at 12 months post-randomization.

Methods:

• Trial Design: A two-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) with internal pilot and process evaluation.
• Participants: Approximately 448 CYP presenting at police custody suites in Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Trust (LSCFT), randomly assigned to the intervention (SAU + SFBT) or control (SAU only) group.
• Intervention: SFBT involves six bi-weekly sessions over 12 weeks, focusing on solution-building rather than problem exploration. It includes the use of the “miracle question” and scales to identify positive changes and goals.
• Outcomes: Primary outcome is the frequency of offending behaviors as measured by SRDM. Secondary outcomes include criminal offense data (arrests, cautions, etc.), emotional and behavioral difficulties (measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, SDQ), and gang affiliation.
• Process Evaluation: This will assess the acceptability, experiences, and fidelity of the intervention, as well as identify barriers to implementation and scalability.

Results and Analysis: The study will measure changes in offending behaviors, emotional difficulties, and gang affiliation, with additional subgroup analyses for intellectual disabilities and callous-unemotional traits. Secondary outcomes will include criminal offense data and changes in behavior, assessed through multiple follow-ups and data from police records.

The trial aims to provide insight into whether SFBT is a cost-effective and scalable psychological intervention that can reduce youth offending behaviors, with the potential to influence policy and expand L&D services to include psychological therapy for at-risk youth.

Reference:

Moody, G., et al. (2024). Solutions Trial: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in 10–17-year-olds presenting at police custody: A randomized controlled trial. Trials, 25(1), 159.

This randomized controlled trial examined the effect of solution-focused counseling on reducing domestic violence and improving the quality of life for pregnant women at risk of violence. Ninety women were assigned to either the intervention group, which received six sessions of solution-focused counseling, or a control group. The study used the Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS-2) to measure domestic violence and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) to assess quality of life.

Results:

• Violence reduction: The intervention group experienced significant reductions in physical, psychological, and sexual violence, with the most notable decrease in psychological violence. The intervention group showed significant improvements compared to the control group, particularly in negotiation and managing conflict.
• Quality of life improvement: The intervention group also reported significant improvements in quality of life, especially in areas like vitality, psychological health, bodily pain, physical functioning, and social functioning. However, no significant changes were found in general health, role limitation-physical, or role limitation-emotional health.

Conclusion: Solution-focused counseling was found to be effective in reducing domestic violence and improving various aspects of the women’s quality of life, making it a promising intervention for pregnant women at risk of domestic violence. The study emphasizes empowerment, problem-solving, and fostering a positive outlook, which aligns with the core principles of solution-focused therapy.

Implications: This approach may be beneficial for healthcare providers working with women at risk of domestic violence. Future research with extended follow-up periods and a larger sample size is recommended for more comprehensive results.

Reference:

Mirghafourvand, M., Charandabi, S. M. A., Nahaee, J., & Rahmani, A. (2021). The effect of Solution-Focused counseling on violence rate and quality of life among pregnant women at risk of domestic violence: A randomized controlled trial. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 21(1), 1-9.

This study evaluated the impact of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) on hope and clinical symptoms among Latine clients using a single-case research design (SCRD). The research involved two participants, Mary and Joel, from a community counseling clinic, and aimed to assess how SFBT could improve mental health outcomes, specifically hope and clinical symptoms. The Dispositional Hope Scale (DHS) and Outcome Questionnaire (OQ-45.2) were used to measure these variables before and after the intervention.

Results:

• Hope: Both participants showed improvements in their levels of hope, with Mary experiencing a moderate improvement in hope and Joel demonstrating a more noticeable but debatably effective change. However, Mary’s improvement did not reach clinical significance due to her initial high hope scores, while Joel showed moderate improvement that was not clinically significant.
• Clinical Symptoms: Both participants experienced significant reductions in clinical symptoms, as measured by the OQ-45.2. Mary had a 60.95% improvement, and Joel had a 43.93% improvement, both showing reductions in symptom distress, interpersonal relations, and social role performance. These improvements were statistically significant and clinically meaningful for Mary, while Joel showed substantial improvement with some room for further reduction.

Conclusion: The findings support that SFBT can be effective in improving hope and clinical symptoms in Latine clients, particularly in community counseling settings. SFBT’s focus on identifying strengths, exceptions, and solutions aligns well with the Latine cultural values of resilience and families. The study highlights the importance of using SFBT in counselor training programs, encouraging counselors to integrate these principles in practice. Future research should expand on this with larger samples and longitudinal data to assess the long-term impact of SFBT for diverse populations.

Implications:

For counselor educators: Incorporate SFBT into curricula and teach how to evaluate counseling effectiveness using SCRDs and tools like DHS and OQ-45.2.
For practitioners: Use SFBT to build positive therapeutic relationships, focusing on strengths, hope, and resilience.
Future research should explore SFBT’s impact on other aspects of subjective well-being and conduct comparative studies with other therapeutic approaches.

Reference:

González Suitt, J., & Franklin, C. (2021). Evaluating the impact of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy on hope and clinical symptoms with Latin clients. Journal of Ethnic & Cultural Diversity in Social Work, 30(1-2), 45-62.

This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) intervention in child protection services in Tenerife, Spain. The study involved 152 child protection workers from 34 teams who served 477 families. Workers were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (receiving SFBT training and supervision) or a control group (continuing usual practices). The primary objectives were to assess goal achievement, self-reported well-being of parents and children, and child welfare outcomes (e.g., child removal and recidivism) after one year of intervention. Additionally, the study examined the cost-efficiency of the SFBT approach in terms of session duration and resource allocation.

Results:

• Goal Achievement: The experimental group reported higher goal achievement (both from workers and parents) compared to the control group.
• Well-being: Both parents’ and children’s well-being were significantly better in the experimental group.
• Child Welfare Outcomes: The experimental group had fewer referrals to risk teams, fewer children removed from their homes, and lower recidivism rates compared to the control group.
• Cost-efficiency: The experimental group required fewer sessions and fewer additional resources than the control group, demonstrating cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion: The study found that SFBT is a feasible and effective approach for child protection workers. It resulted in better outcomes in goal achievement, family well-being, and child welfare outcomes. Additionally, it proved to be more cost-efficient compared to traditional interventions. The results suggest that SFBT can be a valuable tool in child protection services and may warrant wider adoption, especially in systems with limited resources.

Reference:

Medina, A., Beyebach, M., & García, F. E. (2022). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a solution-focused intervention in child protection services. Children and Youth Services Review, 143, 106703. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106703

• Applied SFBT principles to enhance medication adherence and reduce anxiety related to treatment.
• Demonstrated that even brief interventions can foster long-term health management and treatment compliance.

Reference:

Lin, Y., & Chan, H. (2022). Solution-focused coaching to improve medication adherence: A randomized controlled trial. Patient Education and Counseling, 105(5), 1208–1214. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.09.014

• Implemented as a strengths-based model to improve coping strategies, resilience, and problem-solving in individuals with acquired brain injuries.
• Showed positive effects on family communication and emotional adjustment.

Reference:

Gan, C. (2020). Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) with individuals with brain injury and their families. NeuroRehabilitation, 47(1), 87–97. https://doi.org/10.3233/NRE-203001

• SFBT significantly reduces depression and stress among breast cancer patients.
• Patients report increased emotional well-being and a restored sense of control.

Reference:

Aminnasab, S., et al. (2018). Effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy on depression and perceived stress in patients with breast cancer. Tanaffos, 17(4), 247–252. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31143218/

• Reduced cancer-related fatigue and psychological distress, leading to improved quality of life for chemotherapy patients.
• Highlighted SFBT as an effective psychological intervention in oncology care.

Reference:

Zhang, M., et al. (2021). Effect of solution-focused brief therapy on cancer-related fatigue in patients undergoing chemotherapy: A randomized controlled trial. Translational Cancer Research, 10(1), 371–380. https://doi.org/10.21037/tcr-20-2873

• Implemented in group settings to foster resilience, emotional well-being, and engagement among students at risk of school dropout.
• Demonstrated that SFBT supports academic success by strengthening self-efficacy and problem-solving skills.

Reference:

Franklin, C., et al. (2023). Solution-focused brief therapy in schools: A review of research and practice. School Social Work Journal, 47(2), 123–140.

• Adapted SFBT principles to help students who stutter develop structured goals, improve self-confidence, and enhance real-life communication skills.
• Highlighted the role of solution-focused goal-setting in speech therapy and school-based interventions.

Reference:

Ramos-Heinrichs, P. (2023). Empowering students who stutter: A solution-focused brief therapy approach. Journal of Communication Disorders, 95, 105171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomdis.2023.105171

• Focused on family-centered goal-setting and strengths-based interventions to improve family dynamics, emotional resilience, and communication.
• Showed positive outcomes in reducing parental stress and fostering more effective coping strategies.

Reference:

Taylor, C., & Biggs, H. (2017). Utilizing solution-focused brief therapy with families living with autism spectrum disorder. Contemporary Family Therapy, 39(1), 12–20. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-017-9414-3

• Strengthened co-parenting strategies and improved relationship satisfaction among couples raising children with ASD.
• Highlighted SFBT’s effectiveness in promoting shared problem-solving and reducing caregiver stress.

Reference:

Ferraioli, S. J., & Hansford, A. (2019). A pilot clinical outcome study of a parent training program for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Research and Treatment, 2019, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/5320714

• Significantly reduces psychiatric symptoms in youth, supporting the potential of teletherapy.

Reference:

Schleider, J. L., & Weisz, J. R. (2017). Single-session digital interventions for youth: Advances and opportunities. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 13, 149–177. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-032816-045214

• Demonstrated effectiveness in reducing workplace substance use and improving employee well-being.
• Highlighted the potential for workplace-based SFBT interventions in corporate settings.

Reference:

Franklin, C., & Hai, A. H. (2021). Brief intervention strategies for addressing workplace substance use: A solution-focused approach. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 26(4), 517–529. https://doi.org/10.1037/ocp0000292

Over the past decade, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) has continued to strengthen as an evidence-based, transdisciplinary intervention, proving effective across various fields such as mental health, substance use treatment, medical care, education, forensic rehabilitation, restorative justice, and coaching. As these systems seek scalable solutions, SFBT’s client-driven language empowers individuals and communities. By focusing on strengths, solutions, and empowering, goal-oriented questions, SFBT fosters meaningful change with compassion and brevity.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) has shown tremendous promise across various settings, and the future offers a wealth of exciting possibilities for expanding its impact.

Key areas for exploration might include:

• Implementation Studies: Research on how SFBT can be integrated effectively across diverse settings, ensuring accessibility and fidelity.
• Neurobiology: Investigating the brain-based mechanisms behind SFBT to understand its physiological impact.
• Community Violence Prevention: Researching how SFBT can be applied in community violence prevention, helping create safer environments by focusing on resilience and strength-based solutions.
• Restorative Justice: Investigating how SFBT can contribute to restorative justice initiatives, facilitating healing, accountability, and positive change in communities affected by crime.
• The Medical Field: Exploring how SFBT can support patients and healthcare providers in managing chronic conditions, promoting positive health behaviors, and improving overall well-being.
• Cultural Adaptations: Tailoring SFBT for diverse populations and settings, including parenting, community violence prevention, and underrepresented communities.
• Long-Term Outcomes and Digital Adaptations: Exploring SFBT’s lasting impact and its potential for digital platforms.
• Burnout Prevention and Wellness: Supporting professionals in high-stress environments through resilience and wellness interventions.
• Externalizing Behaviors: Expanding SFBT’s use to address aggression, conduct disorders, and other externalizing behaviors.
• Family Dynamics: Investigating SFBT’s role in improving family therapy, co-parenting, and relationship issues.
• Comparative Effectiveness: Conducting studies comparing SFBT to other therapeutic approaches to understand its unique strengths.
• Application in Schools and College Mental Health: Researching how SFBT can be applied in school and college settings, addressing academic stress, mental health challenges, and student well-being.
• Effectiveness with Adolescents: Further research into SFBT’s impact on adolescent populations, especially those with substance use, mental health challenges, or behavioral issues.
• Group Therapy: Exploring SFBT’s potential in group settings, especially for peer interactions and group dynamics.
• Trauma Adaptation: Investigating how SFBT can be adapted for individuals with complex trauma histories.
• Chronic Illness and Disability: Expanding SFBT’s use with individuals facing chronic illnesses or disabilities, particularly in rehabilitation or long-term care.
• Dementia and Alzheimer’s: Research into how SFBT can be adapted for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s, helping improve quality of life and support caregivers.
• Workplace Stress and Employee Well-being: Applying SFBT in organizational settings to address stress, burnout, and employee mental health.
• Addiction Recovery: Investigating the effectiveness of SFBT in helping individuals in addiction recovery, focusing on motivation, goal setting, and sustainable change.
• Homelessness and Housing: Research into how SFBT can be applied in addressing the mental health needs of individuals facing homelessness, with an emphasis on resilience and long-term solutions.
• Veterans and Military Populations: Exploring how SFBT can be used with veterans, particularly those dealing with PTSD or transitioning to civilian life.
• LGBTQ+ Mental Health: Investigating how SFBT can address unique mental health concerns within LGBTQ+ communities, promoting resilience and self-empowerment.

These areas present vast opportunities for advancing SFBT, broadening its reach, and enhancing its effectiveness across diverse contexts and populations.

SFBT is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that will continue to evolve through ongoing research, reinforcing its effectiveness and expanding its impact as an empowering mindset and language—driving lasting change in diverse settings, one conversation at a time.