mobile header
Home > Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

Overview

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a goal-oriented, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps individuals focus on solutions rather than problems. Unlike traditional therapies that explore the causes of distress, SFBT helps people identify their strengths, resources, and past successes to build practical strategies for positive change.

At Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH), trained psychologists and counselors use SFBT to empower patients to make meaningful progress in a short period of time — often within a few sessions.

What is Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?

SFBT is a short-term counseling approach that centers on what clients want to achieve, rather than what they want to avoid or fix. It is based on the principle that individuals already possess the inner resources and skills needed to make positive change — therapy simply helps them recognize, apply, and strengthen those abilities.

When is SFBT recommended?

SFBT is effective for individuals, couples, or families experiencing:

  • Depression, anxiety, or stress-related issues
  • Relationship or marital conflicts
  • Low self-esteem or motivation
  • Workplace or academic stress
  • Parenting challenges or adolescent behavior issues
  • Adjustment difficulties or grief
  • Mild to moderate emotional or behavioral problems

It is suitable for people seeking short-term, focused, and practical therapy.

How does SFBT work?

SFBT focuses on what works rather than what went wrong. During sessions, the therapist helps you:

  • Set clear goals — defining what you want to achieve or change.
  • Identify exceptions — moments when the problem was less severe or manageable.
  • Recognize strengths and resources — personal abilities, support systems, or strategies that have worked in the past.
  • Develop solution steps — small, achievable actions that move you closer to your goals.

Therapists often use powerful, reflective questions such as:

  • “What will be different when things improve?”
  • “On a scale of 1 to 10, where are you now — and what would move you one step up?”

This approach encourages hope, confidence, and self-efficacy.

How long does SFBT take?

SFBT is designed to be time-efficient.

  • Typical therapy duration: 3 to 8 sessions, depending on individual needs.
  • Each session focuses on measurable progress and practical takeaways.

This makes it ideal for individuals seeking focused, short-term therapy with tangible results.

Is SFBT effective?

Yes. Research has shown that SFBT can effectively help with:

  • Reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms
  • Improving communication and relationships
  • Increasing motivation and goal achievement
  • Enhancing resilience and self-confidence

It has been proven effective across age groups — children, adolescents, and adults — and in various settings, from hospitals to schools and workplaces.

What are the benefits of SFBT?
  • Quick, focused, and results-driven
  • Builds on personal strengths and resilience
  • Encourages self-motivation and accountability
  • Enhances communication and problem-solving skills
  • Promotes positive thinking and confidence
  • Cost-effective due to fewer therapy sessions
Who provides SFBT?

At Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH), clinical psychologists and counseling specialists trained in solution-focused methods provide SFBT as part of our comprehensive mental health and behavioral care services. Therapy is conducted in a collaborative, respectful, and non-judgmental environment, where patients set their own pace toward achieving meaningful change.

What can you expect in an SFBT session?
  • A future-focused discussion rather than an exploration of past trauma
  • Goal setting and defining “what success looks like” for you
  • Celebrating progress, even small steps forward
  • Homework or reflection exercises between sessions to reinforce change

Each session ends with a clear plan or small actionable step for the next meeting.

Call to Action

If you are looking for a practical, time-focused, and empowering approach to overcoming emotional or life challenges, the Mental Health & Behavioral Sciences Department at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) — helping you rediscover your strengths and create lasting positive change.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our expert psychologists and counselors today.

Our Doctors

View All

Real Voices That Matter