SFT Therapy in Edmonton
Learn About Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)
What is SFT?
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), also known as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that focuses on finding practical solutions rather than analyzing problems. It is based on the belief that clients already possess the inner resources and strengths needed to create meaningful change in their lives.
Rather than diving deeply into past experiences or the root causes of problems, SFT encourages clients to envision their desired future and identify the steps needed to achieve it. This approach is highly collaborative, optimistic, and focused on building momentum toward a better outcome.
Originally developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg in the 1980s, SFT has since been used widely across individual therapy, couples counselling, family therapy, and coaching settings.
How Does SFT Work?
SFT is structured around questions and conversations that:
Clarify goals: Clients are encouraged to imagine what their life will look like when the problem is no longer present. This is often referred to as the “miracle question.”
Identify exceptions: The therapist helps the client recognize times when the problem was less severe or absent, and explore what was different during those times.
Build on strengths and resources: Instead of pathologizing, SFT emphasizes the client’s past successes, skills, and supports to create positive momentum.
Set small, achievable steps: Clients are supported in identifying specific, manageable changes they can make in the short term to move closer to their goals.
Use scaling questions: Therapists often ask clients to rate their progress or confidence on a scale from 1 to 10 to help track improvements and explore what could move them up the scale.
SFT sessions are typically brief — often 6–12 sessions — and each session is designed to be meaningful on its own, regardless of whether or not future sessions occur.
What Are the Benefits of SFT?
SFT is well-suited for individuals seeking efficient, positive, and forward-thinking support. It can be used on its own or in combination with other therapy models.
Common benefits include:
Faster progress: Since SFT is future-focused and solution-oriented, clients often see meaningful changes in a short period.
Empowerment": By highlighting strengths and successes, clients develop confidence in their ability to solve problems and make decisions.
Clarity and direction: Goal-setting helps clients gain focus, direction, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Reduced frustration: Clients can bypass repetitive problem analysis and move toward actionable change.
Practical skills: SFT emphasizes real-life solutions that are often simple, realistic, and sustainable.
Adaptability: SFT works well for a wide range of concerns, including relationship issues, stress, anxiety, parenting challenges, and workplace difficulties.
What Can I Expect in SFT?
SFT sessions tend to feel positive, collaborative, and efficient. You can expect your therapist to ask a lot of questions that uncover your goals, values, and strengths, rather than focusing on pathology or long-term problem history.
In a typical session, you might:
Define a clear goal: Your therapist may ask, “What would be different if this problem were solved?” or “What would your life look like if this was no longer an issue?”
Explore past successes: You’ll reflect on times when you’ve handled similar situations well or felt more confident.
Use scaling tools: You may be asked to rate your progress on a scale to identify what’s working and what the next step might be.
Celebrate small wins: Every small improvement is recognized and built upon, creating forward momentum.
Set action steps: You’ll leave sessions with clear, practical things to try between appointments.
SFT is especially helpful for clients who want to feel motivated, future-focused, and supported in taking quick action toward change.
Our Approach
At Crossroads Psychological & Wellness, we integrate Solution-Focused Therapy as part of our commitment to empowering clients and helping them make real progress — fast.
Strength-based lens: We believe clients are resilient and capable. Our job is to help you tap into that strength, not define you by your struggles.
Brief, but impactful: Whether you’re here for one session or several, we make each conversation count by focusing on what’s most important to you.
Flexible integration: We often blend SFT with other modalities like CBT, ACT, or Emotionally Focused Therapy for a well-rounded and personalized experience.
Collaborative tone: Therapy is a team effort. We work with you to explore what’s already working and build a path forward that feels natural and achievable.
Real-world results: Our goal is to help you leave sessions with clarity, confidence, and a few practical steps you can try immediately.
