The Solution-Focused Approach to Trauma Therapy

Abstract The possibilities for using solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) during trauma therapy are presented in this article. First, “trauma” and related constructs used in psychotherapy are defined, as well as some misconceptions about trauma. The second part introduces the basic tenets of SFBT and the adapted “river of integration” model (Siegel, 2010), which helps to reflect the various ways SFBT practices are used in trauma therapy. Methods for solution-development in trauma therapy (e.g., work with preferred future, exceptions, personal growth, identity change, and re-connecting) are introduced in the next section. This is followed by methods for change in rigid patterns (e.g., experiential and “bottom-up” work) and for managing overwhelming chaos (coping and playful meaning-making techniques). Case examples are also available to illustrate those methods.