What Is Helpful: The Client’s Perception of the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Process by Level of Engagement

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore what elements from the solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) process clients perceive as helpful and how their perception varies by level of engagement. The replication of the SFBT model from the perspective of clients residing outside the USA was also examined. A mixed-method design was used in a naturalistic setting in Poland. Clients (N = 346; 74% females) aged 18 to 67 attending psychotherapy in private practice were interviewed. Thematic analysis revealed eleven main themes. The SFBT-specific themes replicated the original model, yet a more ordered organization of core elements emerged than currently existing ones. The elements perceived as helpful significantly varied by the level of engagement. The two generic themes identified suggest that allowing the client to talk things out while working toward awareness and understanding is an essential environment in which the solution-focused co-construction process takes place.