What type of approach do solution-focused counseling techniques emphasize?

Solution-focused counseling techniques emphasize building on existing strengths and solutions rather than focusing on problems. This approach is rooted in the belief that clients possess the resources and strengths necessary to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. By concentrating on what is working and what has previously helped the client, solution-focused counseling encourages individuals to draw on their past successes to tackle current issues.

In practice, this means that counselors may ask clients about times in their lives when they successfully dealt with similar concerns or what small steps they might take towards their desired outcomes. This positive and forward-looking stance fosters hope and empowers clients to envision solutions instead of being bogged down by past failures or patterns of negative thinking. Therefore, the emphasis is on solutions and strengths rather than delving into the details of past problems.