Every prominent author has contributed extensively to this topic, so my additions here are likely trivial and redundant. However, some may find the term “brief” in Solution Focused Brief Therapy confusing – does brief mean it’s unsuitable for the so-called “serious” issues? I want to address common misconceptions about what brief signifies.

There’s an outdated assumption that quality therapy means having weekly sessions for a year or more. Solution Focused Practice challenges this notion. As Steve de Shazer, one of the founders of this approach, famously stated, “Brief means brief enough – no more than what is needed.” Brief does not equate to short-term or indicate limitations in depth or impact.

From my perspective as a practitioner, brief means I don’t have a checklist of requirements clients must meet to finish therapy. As seen across my website and blogs, I wouldn’t say I like over-theorizing human experiences. Research has tremendous value, but what matters most is the client’s lived experience and goals.

We trust the client’s expertise in determining their ideal session frequency and duration. If four sessions do the trick, that’s wonderful. Suppose 40-plus sessions over the years prove most helpful for someone, wonderful. It also doesn’t matter if sessions are weekly, biweekly or monthly.

I firmly believe in trust – trust in the client’s knowledge of themselves, their strengths, their judgement about what’s best for them, and their ability to achieve desired changes. I collaborate with clients to co-construct new possibilities, narratives, and behaviours tailored to their unique needs and priorities.

The “brief” in Solution Focused Brief Therapy means we do not impose unnecessary restrictions on clients regarding session numbers, frequency or length. We provide thoughtful support for exactly as long as clients find it beneficial. The therapy relationship is an ever-evolving journey grounded in mutual understanding and respect. If you have any questions, please let me know, comment, contact me, or send this blog to your friend. You might have noticed that I’m very fond of this approach, and I welcome your thoughts and queries.