A solution focused method to prevent depression

 Hi

Trust you are keeping well as we begin to see some signs of positive change, at least for some, in this pandemic period.

I am wondering if you have ever struggled to reach a solution for a problem that just seems to persist? Whether it's a personal or professional problem, a relationship challenge or a goal that just keeps slipping no matter how hard you try to make it happen! Trying to work out what to do may have kept you awake many nights, maybe even causing you to experience depression.

Because of the large number of people who have been experiencing depression during the pandemic and because of depression's potential seriousness, it is important to investigate possible effective preventative measures. As a counsellor, one of the areas I focus on is Solution-focussed Brief Therapy (SFBT). The therapeutic focus of SFBT is future oriented, specifically based on the client’s expressed aims or goals. In other words, I am told what problem area(s) the client needs help with, and together we work towards a solution. 

The process involves me asking questions designed to enable clients to visualize in detail their desired results, and identification of the client's strengths (do they have the capability and capacity to reach the goal?), resources (eg. money, materials, staff) and times when the problem is not in evidence. The latter is important because it is a barrier to progress and needs to be avoided.

At the end of a session, I would compliment the client based on what has emerged from our discussion and I will set homework which may involve asking the client to do more of what is already working, and less of what is not working towards the desired solution.

I hope this is helpful and I am available to help you reach a solution to a problem which you have been struggling with during the pandemic, or even earlier.

Until

Jo-Ann