Solution-focused approaches

Solution-focused brief therapy uses a range of techniques underpinned by theoretical assumptions about people and what is helpful in promoting change through empowering them to take appropriate responsibility for their lives.

This is an introductory book for people who wish to learn more about the theory and practice, particularly for those who wish to work in a helpful, empowering and hopeful way with people.

It provides practice examples relevant to different professional contexts, as well as reflective exercises that help to illustrate how the approach works.

As solution-focused work developed in therapeutic contexts, many examples are drawn from encounters between counsellors in various settings and people who come to them by various routes.

But importantly, the book also includes examples that show how solution-focused approaches can be used by social, care, community and justice workers going about their work in statutory and voluntary agencies with the different demands that these make.

The language used within the book reflects this breadth.

Part One outlines the theoretical influences on solution-focused approaches and contrasts them with more traditional approaches. It allows the reader to think about what informs their current practice and how a solution-focused approach may be different, giving ideas for developing practice in a reflective way.

Part Two outlines the practice principles and techniques involved in solution-focused work, using an interview structure that provides logical flow to the ideas.

Part Three discusses the relevance and exemplifies the use of solution-focused approaches to anti-oppressive practice.

Part Four outlines some outcome studies and evidence for effectiveness of solution-focused approaches, with a further section on useful websites and further reading.

Solution-focused approaches is part of the "Theory into Practice" Series (Series Editor: Neil Thompson).

Each book in the Series can be read either as a general overview of particular areas of theory and practice, or as a foundation for further study.