Solution-Focused Therapy in New Zealand
Solution-focused therapy concentrates on your strengths and future goals rather than analysing past problems.
What is Solution-Focused Therapy?
Solution-focused therapy (also called Solution-Focused Brief Therapy or SFBT) is a forward-looking approach that emphasises your strengths, resources, and desired future rather than dwelling on past problems. Developed in the 1980s, it is grounded in the observation that people already have many of the skills they need to solve their problems — the therapy helps them identify and use these resources more effectively. Solution-focused therapy tends to be relatively brief and is well-suited for people with specific goals or who prefer a positive, future-oriented approach.
What to expect in sessions
Solution-focused sessions are upbeat and future-oriented. Your therapist might ask questions like 'What will be different when things are better?' or 'When have you handled something like this successfully before?' There's less focus on exploring the past and more on identifying exceptions to the problem and building on existing strengths. Sessions tend to be energising rather than heavy.
Who it may help
Solution-Focused Therapy is often used to support people experiencing:
Practitioners using Solution-Focused Therapy
Liam Parata
Youth & Family Counsellor
MNZAC
Location
Approaches
Mei Zhang
Registered Counsellor
MNZAC
Location
Approaches
Tom Beckett
Men's Counsellor
MNZAC
Location
Approaches
Frequently asked questions about Solution-Focused Therapy
How many sessions of Solution-Focused Therapy will I need?
This varies widely depending on your situation and goals. Some approaches like CBT and solution-focused therapy tend to be shorter-term (6–20 sessions), while others like psychodynamic therapy may continue for months or years. Your therapist will discuss this with you.
Is Solution-Focused Therapy available online in New Zealand?
Yes — many New Zealand therapists offer Solution-Focused Therapy via online video sessions. This can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many approaches and gives you access to a wider range of practitioners.
How do I know if Solution-Focused Therapy is right for me?
The best way is to take our quiz — it considers your specific situation and preferences and suggests approaches that may suit you. You can also discuss it with a therapist in an initial consultation.
Is Solution-Focused Therapy right for me?
Take our quiz to get personalised suggestions.
Take the quiz