Engagement is the precondition for therapeutic work; without it, strategies, plans, and techniques do not translate into action. In substance use work, engagement refers to meaningful participation in the therapeutic process. It shows up in more than just attendance—in how people respond, reflect, and interact in the conversation, and in the small steps they Read More >
The Institute for Solution-Focused Therapy (ISFT) is proud to partner with the State of Illinois to advance the landmark Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act (110 ILCS 58/; Public Act 101-0251), signed by Governor JB Pritzker, which strengthens campus mental health and improves student well-being across Illinois colleges and universities. Through this partnership, Read More >
Across the world, communities are facing a crisis of connection. Rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness are at historic highs, while access to professional mental health care remains limited (U.S. Surgeon General, 2023). On college campuses in particular, the gap between need and capacity continues to widen; students report unprecedented stress, disconnection, and difficulty Read More >
This article is part of our ongoing work to strengthen safer communities using a solution-focused approach. If you’re interested in applying these ideas in practice, see our new course: Solution-Focused Violence Prevention: Skills and Practice for Agencies Penny Griffith and Collaborative Solutions for Communities have been building something extraordinary in Washington, D.C. For Read More >
“There are questions which illuminate, and there are those that destroy. We should ask the first kind.” —Isidor Isaac Rabi, Nobel Laureate in Physics, 1944 In an age of relentless noise and accelerating uncertainty, this insight offers a steady call to intentional action. It acknowledges how difficult this time is for all of Read More >
by Anne Lutz You can heal without reliving painful emotions or revisiting traumatic events—there is a different path forward. With this workbook, you'll develop a strengths-based mindset, discover effective strategies for managing anxiety and depression, and take meaningful steps to enhance your mental well-being. Get It Now >
Solution-Focused VIP Mapping Solution-focused VIP Mapping provides a transformative approach to turning life’s challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. By identifying and engaging with your Very Important Presences (VIPs)—the people, experiences, and influences that shape your world—you can foster meaningful relationships, cultivate your strengths, and gain clarity, even in moments of loneliness. Read More >
A Transformative Exercise to Navigate Loneliness and Strengthen Connections This exercise helps you reflect on your life's very important presences (VIPs)—the individuals, influences, and conditions that shape your experiences. By exploring these presences, you’ll gain clarity about their impact, recognize your strengths, and take actionable steps to nurture connections, address challenges, and enhance Read More >
Published by Kaplan & Sadock's Written by Robert Boland and Marcia L. Verduin Dr. Anne Bodmer Lutz, MD, a leading expert in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), is proud to contribute a groundbreaking chapter on this evidence-based treatment approach in the 11th edition of Kaplan & Sadock's Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry. This marks the first Read More >
If you're seeking a way to achieve better work-life balance, solution-focused scaling offers a gentle yet empowering approach to overcoming challenges like depression, anxiety, or burnout. It's aligning your professional responsibilities with your personal needs, carving out time for rest, nurturing relationships, and investing in self-care. By setting boundaries, making adjustments, and focusing on Read More >