The Use of Solution‐focused Brief Therapy in Schools

Abstract

Summary This article gives a basic introduction to the theory and methods used in solution‐focused brief therapy and how these ideas might be used in school. This therapy has developed over the last 10 years out of certain ideas in family therapy and from some of the innovations of M. Erickson. Solution‐focused therapists have developed methods for exploring ‘exceptions’ to the presenting problem, and building solution orientated tasks upon these exceptions. There is also a focus on helping clients to construct pictures of ‘life without the problem’, and on helping the client to be able to recognise the first signs of progress. Two examples of how this approach can be used in schools are given.