MFT National Exam PDF 2023 Quick Study: Solution-Focused Therapy

Quick Study: Solution-Focused Therapy Founders Steve de Shazer, Insoo Kim Berg Underpinnings This theory is less concerned with understanding the details of the presenting problem and instead focuses on uncovering solutions. Believes clients are the experts and have the skills and knowledge to devel...

Quick Study: Solution-Focused Therapy Founders Steve de Shazer, Insoo Kim Berg Underpinnings This theory is less concerned with understanding the details of the presenting problem and instead focuses on uncovering solutions. Believes clients are the experts and have the skills and knowledge to develop solutions for their presenting issues, and need assistance uncovering them. Change is inevitable; it is not a question of if change will occur, but rather, when it will take place. Theory of Change Change occurs through accessing client’s already existing strengths and resources. Role of Therapist Therapist functions as a consultant, cheerleader, coach. Collaborative. Inquisitive, takes a stance of not-knowing, and views client as expert. Main Concepts Client Resources: These are the coping mechanisms, internal and external support systems, a client already has to address their presenting issue. Exception Questions: A series of questions asked at the beginning of therapy that are designed to gather information about exceptions to the problem. This would include times when things were going well and the problem did not exist as well as times when the problem did not negatively affect the client. Miracle Question: A hypothetical set of questions that ask the client to imagine what life would look like and how it would be different if the problem is solved. It is designed to clarify the client’s goal, identify exceptions to the problem, and instill hope in the client that change is possible. Scaling Questions: An intervention used over the course of treatment (scale of 0-10) that assesses a client’s progress, can determine how much the problem is affecting them, as well as their motivation and belief that solutions are possible. Coping Questions: An intervention used throughout treatment. The therapist aligns with the client in recognizing their problem exists and simultaneously explores how the client continues in spite of the challenges and what inner resources help with this. Compliments: An intervention used over the course of treatment whereby the therapist praises the client for their commitment to change, strengths, and progress. MFT National Exam © 2023 Therapist Development Center 1 Formula First Session Task: The therapist asks their client at the end of the first session what they do not want to change. This is used to highlight the client’s existing strengths. Treatment Goals Client implements small and large changes to achieve their preferred future. Client identifies and builds on their strengths and resources. Interventions Ask different types of questions to elicit solutions and access the client’s strengths and resources. Acknowledge and compliment the client’s progress, strengths, and resources. Utilize the miracle question. Explore exceptions to the client’s presenting problem. Utilize scaling to assess progress. Phases of Treatment This is generally considered a short-term treatment modality. Solution-Focused therapy can be used with individuals, couples, or families. The therapist will work with whomever attends therapy. Beginning: Envision preferred future; begin to identify client’s strengths; use solution-oriented language; come up with achievable goals by using a miracle question; identify exceptions to problems. Early/Middle: Identify strengths, resources, and traits the client already has used to deal with problems; utilize solution-talk; utilize scaling questions to reflect on the nature of change the client has experienced; feedback to clients that include compliments and tasks; catch and highlight small changes. End: Assist the client to identify things they can do to continue the changes they have made; identify hurdles or perceived barriers that could get in the way of maintaining the changes they made. MFT National Exam © 2023 Therapist Development Center 2