Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify and achieve their goals by working towards solutions rather than dwelling on the problems or past experiences. Developed in the 1980s by Steve de Shazer, Insoo Kim Berg, and their colleagues, SFT is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that is based on the belief that individuals have the ability to find solutions to their problems, even if they don’t yet know what those solutions are.

One of the key principles of SFT is the idea that individuals are experts in their own lives and that they already possess the resources they need to make positive changes. Instead of dwelling on the past or analyzing problems in depth, SFT helps individuals identify their strengths and the positive aspects of their lives, and then work towards building on those strengths to achieve their goals.

SFT is different from other types of therapy in that it is highly collaborative and empowering. The therapist works with the individual to identify what they want to achieve and then helps them to create a plan of action to achieve those goals. The therapist also helps the individual to identify and utilize their own resources and strengths to achieve their goals, rather than focusing on their deficits or problems.

Another unique aspect of SFT is that it is a brief therapy. Typically, SFT is completed in 6-20 sessions, compared to other forms of psychotherapy that can take months or even years. This makes it a more cost-effective and time-efficient option for many individuals.

One of the benefits of SFT is that it helps individuals to focus on what they want to achieve, rather than what they don't want. This can help to create a sense of hope and optimism, which can be especially important for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, SFT can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have been in therapy for a long time without making progress, as it helps them to identify and work towards specific, measurable goals.