My Approach: (Brief Solution-Focused)
In this Brief Therapy Solution-Focused Approach every session is the first and every session is the last. Every session is the first session to the extent that I am looking for positives, the exceptions, and solutions; and to the extent that I am promoting change by maintaining rapport and offering positive feedback and encouragement. Every session is the last to the extent that I am asking what this client needs to be doing differently at the end of this session to be on track toward what s/he wants.
This brief therapy solution-focused approach asserts that people have all they need to solve their problems. With this approach agency is enhanced. This is accomplished by co-creating with clients what seems out of control to them as in their control. For many youths and others, solving problems seems nearly impossible because everything about the problem seems out of their control. The problems seem to be self perpetuating and the solution seems out of reach because it is contingent on things that appear to them as out of their control. As such, enhancing their sense of responsibility and agency is part of my goal.