Focused Brief Therapy: A Case Study

Theoretical Models and Interventions
Solution – Focused Brief Therapy looks at finding solutions rather than looking at the problem itself. The main key concepts of SFBT are 1) having a positive orientation, 2) looking for what is working, and 3) basic assumptions guiding practice (Corey, 2009). Having a positive orientation refers to having an “optimistic assumption that people are healthy and competent and have the ability to construct solutions that can enhance their lives” (Corey, 2009, p. 378). An example of what looking for what is working means is “it encourages people to move out of analyzing the nature of the problem and how it arose and instead to begin to find solutions and take action to solve it” (Corey, 2009, p. 379). Examples

In order for the intervention to be successful, there need to be goals established at the beginning of treatment when working with childhood trauma. Long-term goals for childhood trauma include developing an awareness of how childhood issues have affected addiction, learn how childhood trauma resulted in interpersonal problems and addictions, maintain a program of recovery that is free from addiction and the negative effects, and resolve past issues so that there is less fear, anger and depression which will assist in the individual having a greater sense of self-worth and confidence (Perkinson, Jongsma, & Bruce, 2014). The following table provides objectives and therapeutic interventions for childhood trauma as discussed by Perkinson et al

Research indicates that eating disorder treatment has poor engagement, high drop-out, and low motivation to change (Knowles, Anokhina, & Serpell, 2013). Because of the low motivation to change it is recommended using motivation-enhancing interventions according to Knowles et al. (2013). Knowles et al. (2013) suggest that when working with a client who has an eating disorder that “short-term unpleasant consequences of change (e.g., bloating, extreme hunger) are openly discussed with people with eating disorders, as this ensures that client’s are fully prepared and committed to change” (p. 98). Motivational techniques discussed by Knowles et al. (2013) were “the exploration of pros and cons of change; the development of a narrative about a preferred future; exploring the function of symptoms; and establishing realistic goals for change” (p.