Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

Target Population

SFBT is designed for adolescents and adults with a range of issues and clinical disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance use. 

Dosage

SFBT does not specify frequency or duration requirements. SFBT is designed to be brief, flexible, and vary in length or frequency based on client need. SFBT therapists aim for efficient program completion in as few sessions as possible. Therapists and clients work together to determine the number of sessions. Therapists typically deliver SFBT in 4–6 sessions, though the program can be completed in a single session. Therapists can deliver sessions to individuals, couples, families, or groups. 

Location/Delivery Setting

Recommended Locations/Delivery Settings

Therapists can deliver SFBT in outpatient, community, or school settings.  

Location/Delivery Settings Observed in the Research

• Hospital/Medical Center
• Online
• Home
• Mental Health Center, Treatment Center, Therapist Office

Education, Certifications and Training

SFBT therapists typically have at least a master’s degree in a mental health-related discipline, such as social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy, and formal training and supervision in SFBT. Therapists delivering SFBT should meet the qualifications and licensure requirements to provide therapy sessions with clients set by their relevant jurisdiction or licensing board. Components recommended for inclusion in SFBT training include: the history and philosophy of SFBT, basic program tenets and therapeutic process, essential and complementary components, session format and structure, key practices and challenges, video examples, role play practice, and peer and instructor feedback. 

Program or Service Documentation

Book/Manual/Available documentation used for review

Solution Focused Brief Therapy Association Research Committee. (2025). Solution Focused Therapy treatment manual for working with individuals (3rd ed.). Solution Focused Brief Therapy Association. 

Available languages

The SFBT manual is available in English. Other SFBT materials are available in English, French, and Spanish. 

Other supporting materials

SFBT Treatment Manual

For More Information

Website: https://www.sfbta.org/ 

Email: board@sfbta.org

Note: The details on Dosage; Location; Education, Certifications, and Training; Other Supporting Materials; and For More Information sections above are provided to website users for informational purposes only. This information is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.

Results of Search and Review	Number of Studies Identified and Reviewed for Solution-Focused Brief Therapy
Identified in Search	66
Eligible for Review	41
Rated High	6
Rated Moderate	0
Rated Low	9
Reviewed Only for Risk of Harm	26

Outcome	Effect Size	95% Confidence Interval	Implied Percentile Effect	N of Studies (Findings)	N of Participants	Summary of Findings
Child safety: Maltreatment risk assessment	-0.20	[-0.49, 0.10]	-7	1 (1)	175	Favorable: 0 No Effect: 1 Unfavorable: 0
Child well-being: Behavioral and emotional functioning	0.25	[0.01, 0.50]	9	3 (17)	388	Favorable: 5 No Effect: 12 Unfavorable: 0
Child well-being: Cognitive functions and abilities	-0.16	[-0.62, 0.30]	-6	1 (5)	75	Favorable: 0 No Effect: 5 Unfavorable: 0
Adult well-being: Positive parenting practices	0.02	[-0.28, 0.31]	0	1 (4)	175	Favorable: 0 No Effect: 4 Unfavorable: 0
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver mental or emotional health	0.69	[0.44, 0.94]	25	3 (22)	307	Favorable: 4 No Effect: 18 Unfavorable: 0
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver substance use	0.00	[-0.38, 0.39]	0	1 (1)	105	Favorable: 0 No Effect: 1 Unfavorable: 0
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver criminal behavior	-0.23	[-0.60, 0.14]	-9	1 (1)	112	Favorable: 0 No Effect: 1 Unfavorable: 0
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver physical health	-0.05	[-0.36, 0.26]	-1	2 (4)	208	Favorable: 1 No Effect: 3 Unfavorable: 0

Note: For the effect sizes and implied percentile effects reported in the table, a positive number favors the intervention condition and a negative number favors the comparison condition. A range of comparison conditions, including no intervention, minimal intervention, placebo or attention, treatment as usual, and head-to-head comparison conditions are eligible for review (see Section 4.1.7 of the Handbook Version 2.0). Different types of comparison conditions may affect the magnitude of the effect sizes across studies. For example, an intervention compared to a no treatment comparison condition may produce a larger effect size than the same intervention compared to another intervention because the other intervention may itself be effective. The effect sizes shown may be derived from samples that overlap across studies. See the Individual Study Findings table for information about the specific comparison conditions used in each study and the Studies Reviewed section for information about any overlapping samples. The effect sizes presented here are provided for informational purposes only and are not used in determining a program or service rating. Effect sizes for some outcomes were not able to be calculated by the Prevention Services Clearinghouse.

The findings reported for this program or service are derived from eligible, prioritized studies rated as moderate or high on study design and execution and do not represent the findings from all eligible studies of the program or service. Learn more on the FAQ page.

Outcome	Effect Size	Implied Percentile Effect	Months after treatment when outcome measured	Number of Participants
Child safety: Maltreatment risk assessment
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2019)
Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory – 2: Views of Corporal Punishment	-0.20	-7	0	175
Child well-being: Behavioral and emotional functioning
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2019)
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Emotional Control (Parent Report)	-0.10	-3	0	75
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Behavioral Regulation Index (Parent Report)	-0.21	-8	0	75
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Anxious/Depressed	0.05	2	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Somatic Complaints	-0.14	-5	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Thought Problems	-0.39	-14	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Attention Problems	0.06	2	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Aggressive Behavior	-0.05	-1	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Internalizing	0.06	2	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Externalizing	-0.10	-3	0	67
Child Behavior Checklist – School Age Form: Total Problems	-0.12	-4	0	67
Study 15008 - SFBT vs. Waitlist Control (Kramer, 2014)
Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale: Total Score	0.18 *	7	0	263
Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale: Clinical Change	0.36	13	0	263
Study 14991 - SFBT vs. Active Control (Zhang, 2022)
Brief Symptom Inventory – 18: Psychological Distress (Chinese)	0.74 *	27	0	50
Brief Symptom Inventory – 18: Depression (Chinese)	0.38 *	14	0	50
Brief Symptom Inventory – 18: Anxiety (Chinese)	0.63 *	23	0	50
Brief Symptom Inventory – 18: Somatization (Chinese)	0.23	8	0	50
Herth Hope Index: Hope (Chinese)	1.53 *	43	0	50
Child well-being: Cognitive functions and abilities
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2019)
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Initiate (Parent Report)	-0.25	-9	0	75
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Working Memory (Parent Report)	0.02	0	0	75
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Plan/Organize (Parent Report)	-0.27	-10	0	75
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Monitor (Parent Report)	-0.17	-6	0	75
Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: Metacognition Index (Parent Report)	-0.14	-5	0	75
Adult well-being: Positive parenting practices
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2019)
Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory – 2: Expectations	-0.17	-6	0	175
Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory – 2: Empathy	0.18	7	0	175
Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory – 2: Role Reversal	-0.03	-1	0	175
Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory – 2: Power/Independence	0.09	3	0	175
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver mental or emotional health
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2019)
Center for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression Short Form: Depression Severity	0.12	4	0	175
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2021)
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Disassociation	0.07	2	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Anxiety	0.02	0	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Depression	0.32	12	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Sexual Abuse Trauma	0.16	6	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Sleep Disturbance	0.12	4	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Sexual Problems	0.11	4	0	175
Trauma Symptom Checklist – 40: Total Score	0.15	6	0	175
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2022)
Trait Hope Scale: Agency	0.14	5	0	122
Trait Hope Scale: Pathways	0.09	3	0	122
Modified Differential Emotion Scales: Negative Emotion	-0.01	0	0	123
Modified Differential Emotion Scales: Positive Emotion	0.49 *	18	0	123
Study 14974 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Mohiti, 2022)
State-Trait Anxiety Inventory: Overt Anxiety (at 5-cm dilation)	1.99 *	47	0	101
State-Trait Anxiety Inventory: Overt Anxiety (at 8-cm dilation)	2.33 *	49	0	101
Study 15020 - SFBT vs. Waitlist Control (Northcott, 2021)
Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale	Null	not calculated	0	30
Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale	0.26	10	3	31
General Health Questionnaire – 12: Total Score	0.58 *	21	0	30
General Health Questionnaire – 12: Total Score	0.11	4	3	31
Depression Intensity Scale Circles	0.00	0	0	30
Depression Intensity Scale Circles	-0.16	-6	3	31
General Health Questionnaire – 12: High Distress (Score of 3 or More)	0.64	23	0	30
General Health Questionnaire – 12: High Distress (Score of 3 or More)	0.41	15	3	31
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver substance use
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2021)
Addiction Severity Index – Self-Report Form: Alcohol Use	0.00	0	0	105
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver criminal behavior
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2021)
Addiction Severity Index – Self-Report Form: Legal Status	-0.23	-9	0	112
Adult well-being: Parent/caregiver physical health
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual (Kim, 2021)
Addiction Severity Index – Self-Report Form: Medical Status	-0.28	-10	0	111
Study 14984 - SFT vs. Care as Usual (Vogelaar, 2013)
Checklist Individual Strength – Dutch: Proportion Below Fatigue Score of 35	0.17	6	6	97
Checklist Individual Strength – Dutch: Proportion Below Fatigue Score of 35	0.70 *	25	0	97
Checklist Individual Strength – Dutch: Proportion Below Fatigue Score of 35	0.45	17	3	97

*p <.05

Note: For the effect sizes and implied percentile effects reported in the table, a positive number favors the intervention condition and a negative number favors the comparison condition. Effect sizes and implied percentile effects were calculated by the Prevention Services Clearinghouse as described in the Handbook of Standards and Procedures, Version 2.0, Sections 6.4 and 6.5 and may not align with effect sizes reported in individual publications. The Prevention Services Clearinghouse uses information reported in study documents and, when necessary, information provided by study authors in response to author queries to assign study ratings and calculate effect sizes (see Section 8.4.2 in the Handbook of Standards and Procedures, Version 2.0). The Prevention Services Clearinghouse typically relies on study-reported p-values to form the basis of the assessment of statistical significance for a finding, but will perform its own statistical test of a finding using any available information in study documents or author queries, as needed (see Section 6.3 in the Handbook of Standards and Procedures, Version 2.0). As a result, the effect sizes and statistical significance reported in the table may not align with the estimates as they are reported in study documents. Effect sizes for some outcomes were not able to be calculated by the Prevention Services Clearinghouse.

The findings reported for this program or service are derived from eligible, prioritized studies rated as moderate or high on study design and execution and do not represent the findings from all eligible studies of the program or service. Learn more on the FAQ page.

Only publications with eligible contrasts that met design and execution standards are included in the individual study findings table.

Full citations for the studies shown in the table are available in the "Studies Reviewed" section.

The participant characteristics display is an initial version. We encourage those interested in providing feedback to send suggestions to preventionservices@abtglobal.com.

The table below displays locations, the year, and participant demographics for studies that received moderate or high ratings on design and execution and that reported the information. Participant characteristics for studies with more than one intervention versus comparison group pair that received moderate or high ratings are shown separately in the table. Please note, the information presented here uses terminology directly from the study documents, when available. Studies that received moderate or high ratings on design and execution that did not include relevant participant demographic information would not be represented in this table.

For more information on how Clearinghouse reviewers record the information in the table, please see our Resource Guide on Study Participant Characteristics and Settings.

Characteristics of the Participants in the Studies with Moderate or High Ratings
Study Location	Study Year	Demographic Characteristics	Populations of Interest*	Household Socioeconomic Status
Study 14976 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual
Characteristics of the Children and Youth
Tulsa, OK, USA	2014	Average age: 9 years 55% White 21% Mixed race 15% African American 10% American Indians/Alaskan Native 4% Hispanic	--	--
Characteristics of the Adults, Parents, or Caregivers
Tulsa, OK, USA	2014	Average age: 31 years 63% White 14% Mixed race 11% American Indians/Alaskan Native 11% African American 5% Hispanic 1.1% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 23% Male	44% Single parents	71% Annual income between $0-9,999 14% Annual income between $10,000-19,000 9% Annual income between $19,001-24,999 6% Annual income $25,000 or more 3.4% Self-employed
Study 14991 - SFBT vs. Active Control
Characteristics of the Children and Youth
Shanghai, China	2017	Average age: 16 years; Age range: 13-20 years 60% Female 40% Male	100% cancer patients with psychological distress	--
Study 15008 - SFBT vs. Waitlist Control
Characteristics of the Children and Youth
Netherlands	2008	Average age: 19.5 years; Age range: 12-22 years 12% Non-western immigrants when one or both parents was born in Africa, Latin America, or Asia 79% Female	100% with a score of 22 or higher on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D)	15% Paid job
Study 15020 - SFBT vs. Waitlist Control
Characteristics of the Adults, Parents, or Caregivers
London, England	2017	Average age: 67.2 years; Age range: 35-86 years 69% White 19% Asian 13% Black 50% Male 50% Female	100% with aphasia at least 6 months post stroke	--
Study 14974 - SFBT vs. Treatment as Usual
Characteristics of the Adults, Parents, or Caregivers
Neyshabur, Iran	2020	Average age: 23 years	100% Nulliparous pregnant women	--
Study 14984 - SFT vs. Care as Usual
Characteristics of the Adults, Parents, or Caregivers
The Netherlands	2010	Average age: 40.1 years 37% Male	59% diagnosed with Crohn's disease; 41% diagnosed with ulcerative colitis	--

“--” indicates information not reported in the study.

* The information about disabilities is based on initial coding. For more information on how the Clearinghouse recorded disability information for the initial release, please see our Resource Guide on Study Participant Characteristics and Settings.

Note: Citations for the documents associated with each 5-digit study number shown in the table can be found in the “Studies Reviewed” section below. Study settings and participant demographics are recorded for all studies that received moderate or high ratings on design and execution and that reported the information. Studies that did not report any information about setting or participant demographics are not displayed. For more information on how participant characteristics are recorded, please see our Resource Guide on Study Participant Characteristics and Settings.

Sometimes study results are reported in more than one document, or a single document reports results from multiple studies. Studies are identified below by their Prevention Services Clearinghouse study identification numbers. To receive a rating of supported or well-supported, the favorable evidence for a program or service must have been obtained from research conducted in a usual care or practice setting.

Studies Rated High

Study 15020

Northcott, S., Thomas, S., James, K., Simpson, A., Hirani, S., Barnard, R., & Hilari, K. (2021). Solution Focused Brief Therapy in post-stroke aphasia (SOFIA): Feasibility and acceptability results of a feasibility randomised wait-list controlled trial. BMJ Open, 11(8), Article e050308. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050308

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)
Study 14991

Zhang, A., Ji, Q., Zhang, K., Cao, Q., Chen, Y., Chen, J., & DuVall, A. (2022). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for adolescent and young adult cancer patients in China: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, 40(6), 816-833. https://doi.org/10.1080/07347332.2021.1931627

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)
Study 15008

Kramer, J., Conijn, B., Oijevaar, P., & Riper, H. (2014). Effectiveness of a web-based Solution-Focused Brief Chat Treatment for depressed adolescents and young adults: randomized controlled trial. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 16(5), Article e141. https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.3261

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)
Study 14984

Vogelaar, L., van't Spijker, A., Timman, R., van Tilburg, A. J. P., Bac, D., Vogelaar, T., Kuipers, E. J., van Busschbach, J. J. V., & van der Woude, C. J. (2013). Fatigue management in patients with IBD: a randomised controlled trial. Gut, 63(6), 911-918. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2013-305191

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)
Study 14976

Kim, J. S., Akin, B. A., & Brook, J. (2019). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to improve child well-being and family functioning outcomes with substance using parents in the child welfare system. Developmental Child Welfare, 1(2), 124-142. https://doi.org/10.1177/2516103219829479

Kim, J. S., Brook, J., Liming, K. W., Park, I. Y., Akin, B. A., & Franklin, C. (2022). Randomized controlled trial study examining positive emotions and hope in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with substance using parents involved in child welfare system. International Journal of Systemic Therapy, 33(3), 129-149. https://doi.org/10.1080/2692398X.2022.2045160

Kim, J. S., Brook, J., & Akin, B. A. (2018). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with substance-using individuals: a randomized controlled trial study. Research on Social Work Practice, 28(4), 452-462. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731516650517

Kim, J. S., Brook, J., & Akin, B. (2021). Randomized controlled trial of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for substance-use-disorder-affected parents involved in the child welfare system. Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research, 12(3), 545-568. https://doi.org/10.1086/715892

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)
Study 14974

Mohiti, M., Salehin, S., Nazari, A. M., Goli, S., & Zamani, M. (2022). Effect of single-session Solution-Focused Brief Therapy on the anxiety of labor pain: a randomized clinical trial. Evidence Based Care Journal, 12(1), 48-55. https://doi.org/10.22038/ebcj.2022.61606.2603

This study was conducted in a usual care or practice setting (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 7.2.2)

Studies Rated Low

Study 14986

Xian, X., Zhu, C., Chen, Y., Huang, B., & Xiang, W. (2022). Effect of Solution-Focused Therapy on cancer-related fatigue in patients with colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a randomized controlled trial. Cancer Nursing, 45(3), E663-E673. https://doi.org/10.1097/NCC.0000000000000994

This study received a low rating because the standards for addressing missing data were not met.
Study 14982

Li, Y., Solomon, P., Zhang, A., Franklin, C., Ji, Q., & Chen, Y. (2018). Efficacy of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for distress among parents of children with congenital heart disease in China. Health & Social Work, 43(1), 30-40. https://doi.org/10.1093/hsw/hlx045

This study received a low rating because baseline equivalence of the intervention and comparison groups was necessary and not demonstrated.
Study 15001

Wilmshurst, L. A. (2002). Treatment programs for youth with emotional and behavioral disorders: an outcome study of two alternate approaches. Mental Health Services Research, 4(2), 85-96. https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1015200200316

This study received a low rating because it did not meet design confound standards.
Study 14998

Boyer, B. E., Geurts, H. M., Prins, P. J. M., & Van der Oord, S. (2016). One-year follow-up of two novel CBTs for adolescents with ADHD. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 25(3), 333-337. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-015-0776-3

Boyer, B. E., Geurts, H. M., Prins, P. J. M., & Van der Oord, S. (2015). Two novel CBTs for adolescents with ADHD: the value of planning skills. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 24(9), 1075-1090. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-014-0661-5

This study received a low rating because the standards for addressing missing data were not met.
Study 14992

Zhang, W., Yan, T., Du, Y., & Liu, X. (2014). Brief report: Effects of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy group-work on promoting post-traumatic growth of mothers who have a child with ASD. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44(8), 2052-2056. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-014-2051-8

This study received a low rating because it did not meet design confound standards.
Study 14977

Jaradat, A.-K. M., & Ababneh, N. A. (2021). Reducing boredom proneness & enhancing intrinsic motivation through a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy program. North American Journal of Psychology, 23(1), 141-154.

This study received a low rating because it did not meet design confound standards.
Study 14985

Medina, A., & Beyebach, M. (2014). The impact of solution-focused training on professionals' beliefs, practices and burnout of child protection workers in Tenerife Island. Child Care in Practice, 20(1), 7-36. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2013.847058

Medina, A., Beyebach, M., & García, F. E. (2022). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a solution-focused intervention in child protection services. Children and Youth Services Review, 143, Article 106703. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106703

This study received a low rating because it did not meet design confound standards.
Study 15589

Zhang, A., Ji, Q., Currin-McCulloch, J., Solomon, P., Chen, Y., Li, Y., Jones, B., Franklin, C., & Nowicki, J. (2018). The effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for psychological distress among Chinese parents of children with a cancer diagnosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Supportive Care in Cancer, 26(8), 2901-2910. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-018-4141-1

This study received a low rating because the standards for addressing missing data were not met.
Study 14973

Jyrä, K., Knekt, P., & Lindfors, O. (2017). The impact of psychotherapy treatments of different length and type on health behaviour during a five-year follow-up. Psychotherapy Research, 27(4), 397-409. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2015.1112928

Maljanen, T., Paltta, P., Harkanen, T., Virtala, E., Lindfors, O., Laaksonen, M. A., Knekt, P., & Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2012). The cost-effectiveness of short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy in the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders during a one-year follow-up. Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics, 15(1), 13-23. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22611089/

Maljanen, T., Paltta, P., Harkanen, T., Virtala, E., Lindfors, O., Laaksonen, M. A., Knekt, P., & Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2014). The cost-effectiveness of short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy in the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders during a three-year follow-up. Open Journal of Psychiatry, 4(3), 238-250. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojpsych.2014.43030

Maljanen, T., Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Virtala, E., Tillman, P., & Härkänen, T. (2016). The cost-effectiveness of short-term and long-term psychotherapy in the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders during a 5-year follow-up. Journal of Affective Disorders, 190, 254-263. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2015.09.065

Marttunen, M., Välikoski, M., Lindfors, O., Laaksonen, M. A., & Knekt, P. (2008). Pretreatment clinical and psychosocial predictors of remission from depression after short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy: a 1-year follow-up study. Psychotherapy Research, 18(2), 191-199. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503300701429958

Knekt, P., Heinonen, E., Härkäpää, K., Järvikoski, A., Virtala, E., Rissanen, J., Lindfors, O., & The Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2015). Randomized trial on the effectiveness of long- and short-term psychotherapy on psychosocial functioning and quality of life during a 5-year follow-up. Psychiatry Research, 229(1-2), 381-388. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2015.05.113

Knekt, P., Laaksonen, M. A., Raitasalo, R., Haaramo, P., & Lindfors, O. (2010). Changes in lifestyle for psychiatric patients three years after the start of short- and long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. European Psychiatry, 25(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2009.03.006

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Laaksonen, M. A., Raitasalo, R., Haaramo, P., Järvikoski, A., & The Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2008). Effectiveness of short-term and long-term psychotherapy on work ability and functional capacity – a randomized clinical trial on depressive and anxiety disorders. Journal of Affective Disorders, 107(1-3), 95-106. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2007.08.005

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Keinänen, M., Heinonen, E., Virtala, E., & Härkänen, T. (2017). The prediction of the level of personality organization on reduction of psychiatric symptoms and improvement of work ability in short- versus long-term psychotherapies during a 5-year follow-up. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 90(3), 353-376. https://doi.org/10.1111/papt.12115

Leichsenring, F. (2008). Mood and anxiety disorders: differences between long- and short-term psychotherapies in work ability, but not employment. Evidence Based Mental Health, 11(4), 109. https://doi.org/10.1136/ebmh.11.4.109

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Härkänen, T., Välikoski, M., Virtala, E., Laaksonen, M. A., Marttunen, M., Kaipainen, M., & Renlund, C. (2008). Randomized trial on the effectiveness of long-and short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy on psychiatric symptoms during a 3-year follow-up. Psychological Medicine, 38(5), 689-703. https://doi.org/10.1017/S003329170700164X

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Laaksonen, M. A., Renlund, C., Haaramo, P., Härkänen, T., Virtala, E., & the Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2011). Quasi-experimental study on the effectiveness of psychoanalysis, long-term and short-term psychotherapy on psychiatric symptoms, work ability and functional capacity during a 5-year follow-up. Journal of Affective Disorders, 132(1-2), 37-47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2011.01.014

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Renlund, C., Sares-Jäske, L., Laaksonen, M. A., & Virtala, E. (2011). Use of auxiliary psychiatric treatment during a 5-year follow-up among patients receiving short- or long-term psychotherapy. Journal of Affective Disorders, 135(1-3), 221-230. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2011.07.024

Knekt, P., Grandell, L., Sares-Jäske, L., & Lindfors, O. (2021). Poor suitability for psychotherapy – a risk factor for treatment non-attendance? Journal of Affective Disorders, 295(1), 1432-1439. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2021.09.020

Knekt, P., Lindfors, O., Sares-Jäske, L., Virtala, E., & Härkänen, T. (2013). Randomized trial on the effectiveness of long- and short-term psychotherapy on psychiatric symptoms and working ability during a 5-year follow-up. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 67(1), 59-68. https://doi.org/10.3109/08039488.2012.680910

Knekt, P., Virtala, E., Härkänen, T., Vaarama, M., Lehtonen, J., & Lindfors, O. (2016). The outcome of short- and long-term psychotherapy 10 years after start of treatment. Psychological Medicine, 46(6), 1175-1188. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291715002718

Lindfors, O., Knekt, P., Heinonen, E., Härkänen, T., Virtala, E., & the Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2015). The effectiveness of short- and long-term psychotherapy on personality functioning during a 5-year follow-up. Journal of Affective Disorders, 173, 31-38. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2014.10.039

Lindfors, O., Knekt, P., Virtala, E., Laaksonen, M. A., & the Helsinki Psychotherapy Study Group. (2012). The effectiveness of Solution-Focused Therapy and short- and long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy on self-concept during a 3-year follow-up. The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 200(11), 946-953. https://doi.org/10.1097/NMD.0b013e3182718c6b

Laaksonen, M. A., Knekt, P., & Lindfors, O. (2013). Psychological predictors of the recovery from mood or anxiety disorder in short-term and long-term psychotherapy during a 3-year follow-up. Psychiatry Research, 208(2), 162-173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2012.09.053

This study received a low rating because it did not meet the statistical model standards.

Studies Reviewed for Risk of Harm

Study 15026

Lafountain, R. M., & Gamer, N. E. (1996). Solution-Focused Counseling Groups: the results are in. Journal for Specialists in Group Work, 21(2), 128-143. https://doi.org/10.1080/01933929608412241

Study 14997

Zimmerman, T. S., Jacobsen, R. B., MacIntyre, M., & Watson, C. (1996). Solution-Focused Parenting Groups: an empirical study. Journal of Systemic Therapies, 15(4), 12-25. https://doi.org/10.1521/jsyt.1996.15.4.12

Study 15007

Rhee, W. K., Merbaum, M., Strube, M. J., & Self, S. M. (2005). Efficacy of brief telephone psychotherapy with callers to a suicide hotline. Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, 35(3), 317-328. https://doi.org/10.1521/suli.2005.35.3.317

Study 15023

Saffarpoor, S., Farahbakhsh, K., Shafiabadi, A., & Pashasharifi, H. (2013). A comparison between the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and the Quadripartite Model of Social Competence and a fusion model of these two methods on increasing social adjustment of female students residing in Tehran dormitories. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 43(3), 562-569. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.2013.01036.x

Study 15012

Wichowicz, H. M., Puchalska, L., Rybak-Korneluk, A. M., Gąsecki, D., & Wiśniewska, A. (2017). Application of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) in individuals after stroke. Brain Injury, 31(11), 1507-1512. https://doi.org/10.1080/02699052.2017.1341997

Study 15035

Smock, S. A., Trepper, T. S., Wetchler, J. L., McCollum, E. E., Ray, R., & Pierce, K. (2008). Solution-Focused Group Therapy for level 1 substance abusers. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 34(1), 107-120. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1752-0606.2008.00056.x

Study 15039

Vogelaar, L., van't Spijker, A., Vogelaar, T., van Busschbach, J. J., Visser, M. S., Kuipers, E. J., & van der Woude, C. J. (2011). Solution Focused Therapy: a promising new tool in the management of fatigue in Crohn's disease patients: psychological interventions for the management of fatigue in Crohn's disease. Journal of Crohn's and Colitis, 5(6), 585-591. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crohns.2011.06.001

Study 15041

Springer, D. W., Lynch, C., & Rubin, A. (2000). Effects of a solution-focused mutual aid group for Hispanic children of incarcerated parents. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 17(6), 431-442. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1026479727159

Study 14980

Cepukiene, V., & Pakrosnis, R. (2011). The outcome of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy among foster care adolescents: the changes of behavior and perceived somatic and cognitive difficulties. Children and Youth Services Review, 33(6), 791-797. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2010.11.027

Study 15017

Alguzo, N. A., & Jaradat, A-K. M. (2021). Investigating the effectiveness of two therapeutic modalities in enhancing self-esteem among female adolescents. International Journal of Psychology, 56(6), 870-877. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijop.12773

Study 15036

Jalali, F., Hashemi, S., Kimiaei, S., Hasani, A., & Jalali, M. (2017). The effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Couple Therapy on marital satisfaction among married prisoners and their wives. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 62(10), 3023-3037. https://doi.org/10.1177/0306624X17733662

Study 15021

Liu, W., Geng, H., Ma, L., Liu, F., Wei, X., Tian, X., & Liu, L. (2020). Effect of the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy on cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients under adjuvant chemotherapy: a randomized trial. Translational Cancer Research, 9(12), 7405-7414. https://doi.org/10.21037/tcr-20-2734

Study 15038

Newsome, W. S. (2004). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy groupwork with at-risk junior high school students: enhancing the bottom line. Research on Social Work Practice, 14(5), 336-343. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731503262134

Study 14981

Cepukiene, V., Pakrosnis, R., & Ulinskaite, G. (2018). Outcome of the Solution-Focused Self-Efficacy Enhancement Group intervention for adolescents in foster care setting. Children and Youth Services Review, 88, 81-87. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2018.03.004

Study 14988

Daki, J., & Savage, R. S. (2010). Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: impacts on academic and emotional difficulties. Journal of Educational Research, 103(5), 309-326. https://doi.org/10.1080/00220670903383127

Study 14996

Zimmerman, T. S., Prest, L. A., & Wetzel, B. E. (1997). Solution-Focused Couples Therapy groups: an empirical study. Journal of Family Therapy, 19(2), 125-144. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-6427.00044

Study 15010

Franklin, C., Moore, K., & Hopson, L. (2008). Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in a school setting. Children & Schools, 30(1), 15-26. https://doi.org/10.1093/cs/30.1.15

Study 15000

Corcoran, J. (2006). A comparison group study of Solution-Focused Therapy versus "treatment-as-usual" for behavior problems in children. Journal of Social Service Research, 33(1), 69-81. https://doi.org/10.1300/J079v33n01_07

Study 15025

Mirzavand, A., Riahi, M., Mirzavand, A., & Malekitabar, M. (2016). Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Therapy on married couples' burnout. Iran Journal of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 10(4), Article e4983. https://doi.org/10.17795/ijpbs-4983.

Study 15031

Beauchemin, J. D. (2018). Solution-Focused Wellness: a randomized controlled trial of college students. Health & Social Work, 43(2), 94-100. https://doi.org/10.1093/hsw/hly007

Study 14983

Cockburn, J. T., Thomas, F. N., & Cockburn, O. J. (1997). Solution-Focused Therapy and psychosocial adjustment to orthopedic rehabilitation in a work hardening program. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, 7(2), 97-106. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf02765880

Study 15004

Roeden, J. M., Maaskant, M. A., & Curfs, L. M. G. (2014). Processes and effects of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in people with intellectual disabilities: a controlled study. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 58(4), 307-320. https://doi.org/10.1111/jir.12038

Study 14993

Eakes, G., Walsh, S., Markowski, M., Cain, H., & Swanson, M. (1997). Family centred Brief Solution-Focused Therapy with chronic schizophrenia: a pilot study. Journal of Family Therapy, 19(2), 145-158. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-6427.00045

Study 14989

Aihie, O. N., & Igbineweka, M. N. (2018). Efficacy of Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Systematic Desensitization and Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy in reducing the test anxiety status of undergraduates in a Nigerian University. Journal of Educational and Social Research, 8(1), 19-26. https://doi.org/10.2478/jesr-2018-0002

Study 15016

Aminnasab, A., Mohammadi, S., Zareinezhad, M., Chatrrouz, T., Mirghafari, S. B., & Rahmani, S. (2018). Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) on depression and perceived stress in patients with breast cancer. Tanaffos, 17(4), 272-279. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6534804/

Study 15014

Seidel, A., & Hedley, D. (2008). The use of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with older adults in Mexico: a preliminary study. American Journal of Family Therapy, 36(3), 242-252. https://doi.org/10.1080/01926180701291279

Studies Not Eligible for Review

Study 14975

McNamee, P., Matanov, A., Jerome, L., Kerry, S., Walker, N., Feng, Y., Molodynski, A., Scott, S., Guruvaiah, L., Collinson, S., McCabe, R., Geddes, J., Priebe, S., & Bird, V. (2022). Clinical- and cost-effectiveness of a technology-supported and solution-focused intervention (DIALOG+) in treatment of patients with chronic depression-study protocol for a multi-site, cluster randomised controlled trial [TACK]. Trials, 23(237), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06181-4

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 14978

Ingersolldayton, B., Schroepfer, T., & Pryce, J. (1999). The effectiveness of a solution-focused approach for problem behaviors among nursing home residents. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 32(3), 49-64. http://dx.doi.org/10.1300/J083v32n03_04

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 14979

MacInnes, D., Kinane, C., Beer, D., Parrott, J., Craig, T., Eldridge, S., Marsh, I., Krotofil, J., & Priebe, S. (2013). Study to assess the effect of a structured communication approach on quality of life in secure mental health settings (Comquol): study protocol for a pilot cluster randomized trial. Trials, 14(257), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1186/1745-6215-14-257

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 14994

Takagi, G., Sakamoto, K., Nihonmatsu, N., & Hagidai, M. (2022). The impact of clarifying the long-term solution picture through solution-focused interventions on positive attitude towards life. PloS One, 17(5), Article e0267107. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0267107

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 14995

Neipp, M. C., Beyebach, M., Sanchez-Prada, A., & del Carmen Delgado Álvarez, M. (2021). Solution-focused versus problem-focused questions: differential effects of miracles, exceptions and scales. Journal of Family Therapy, 43(4), 728-747. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-6427.12345

This study is ineligible for review because it does not use an eligible comparison condition (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.7)

Study 14999

Turns, B., Jordan, S. S., Callahan, K., Whiting, J., & Springer, N. P. (2019). Assessing the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for couples raising a child with autism: a pilot clinical outcome study. Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy, 18(3), 257-279. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332691.2019.1571975

This study is ineligible for review because it does not use an eligible study design (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.5)

Study 15002

Carrera, M., Cabero, A., González, S., Rodríguez, N., García, C., Hernández, L., & Manjón, J. (2016). Solution-Focused Group Therapy for common mental health problems: outcome assessment in routine clinical practice. Psychology & Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 89(3), 294-307. https://doi.org/10.1111/papt.12085

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15003

Valve, P., Lehtinen-Jacks, S., Eriksson, T., Lehtinen, M., Lindfors, P., Saha, M.-T., Rimpelä, A., & Anglé, S. (2013). LINDA - a solution-focused low-intensity intervention aimed at improving health behaviors of young females: a cluster-randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health, 13(1044), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-13-1044

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15005

Adams, J. F., Piercy, F. P., & Jurich, J. A. (1991). Effects of Solution Focused Therapy's "formula first session task" on compliance and outcome in family therapy. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 17(3), 277-290. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1752-0606.1991.tb00895.x

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15006

Joubert, J., & Guse, T. (2021). A Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) intervention model to facilitate hope and subjective well-being among trauma survivors. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, 51(4), 303-310. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-021-09511-w

This study is ineligible for review because it does not use an eligible study design (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.5)

Study 15009

Wallace, L. B., Hai, A. H., & Franklin, C. (2020). An evaluation of Working on What Works (WOWW): a solution-focused intervention for schools. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 46(4), 687-700. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmft.12424

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15011

Franklin, C., Streeter, C. L., Kim, J. S., & Tripodi, S. J. (2007). The effectiveness of a solution-focused, public alternative school for dropout prevention and retrieval. Children & Schools, 29(3), 133-144. https://doi.org/10.1093/cs/29.3.133

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15013

Creswell, C., Violato, M., Fairbanks, H., White, E., Parkinson, M., Abitabile, G., Leidi, A., & Cooper, P. J. (2017). Clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of brief guided parent-delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for treatment of childhood anxiety disorders: a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(7), 529-539. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(17)30149-9

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15015

Wang, Y., Lin, H., Wang, L., Cao, J., Zheng, D., & Zhu, J. (2021). Retracted: clinical observation on the nursing effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction combined with Solution-Focused Brief Therapy in uremic peritoneal dialysis patients and influence on nutritional status. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2021, 1-10. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/3751585 (Retraction published 2023, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2023, 1)

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15018

Giacco, D., Chevalier, A., Patterson, M., Hamborg, T., Mortimer, R., Feng, Y., Webber, M., Xanthopoulou, P., & Priebe, S. (2021). Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a structured social coaching intervention for people with psychosis (SCENE): protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open, 11(12), Article e050627. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050627

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15022

Viner, R. M., Christie, D., Taylor, V., & Hey, S. (2003). Motivational/solution-focused intervention improves HbA1c in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes: a pilot study. Diabetic Medicine, 20(9), 739-742. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1464-5491.2003.00995.x

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15024

English, O., Wellings, C., Banerjea, P., & Ougrin, D. (2019). Specialized therapeutic assessment-based recovery-focused treatment for young people with self-harm: pilot study. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 10, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00895

This study is ineligible for review because it does not use an eligible study design (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.5)

Study 15027

Froeschle, J. G., Smith, R. L., & Ricard, R. (2007). The efficacy of a systematic substance abuse program for adolescent females. Professional School Counseling, 10(5), 498-505. https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X0701000507

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15028

Quinn, M., Carr, A., Carroll, L., & O'Sullivan, D. (2007). Parents Plus Programme 1: evaluation of its effectiveness for pre-school children with developmental disabilities and behavioural problems. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 20(4), 345-359. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3148.2006.00352.x

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15029

Coughlin, M., Sharry, J., Fitzpatrick, C., Guerin, S., & Drumm, M. (2009). A controlled clinical evaluation of the Parents Plus Children's Programme: a video-based programme for parents of children aged 6 to 11 with behavioural and developmental problems. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 14(4), 541-558. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359104509339081

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15030

Archuleta, K. L., Mielitz, K. S., Jayne, D., & Le, V. (2020). Financial goal setting, financial anxiety, and Solution-Focused Financial Therapy (SFFT): a quasi-experimental outcome study. Contemporary Family Therapy, 42(1), 68-76. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-019-09501-0

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15032

Shin, S. K. (2009). Effects of a solution-focused program on the reduction of aggressiveness and the improvement of social readjustment for Korean youth probationers. Journal of Social Service Research, 35(3), 274-284. https://doi.org/10.1080/01488370902901079

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15033

Smyrnios, K. X., & Kirkby, R. J. (1993). Long-term comparison of brief versus unlimited psychodynamic treatments with children and their parents. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 61(6), 1020-1027. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.61.6.1020

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15034

Sağar, M. E., & Özabaci, N. (2022). Investigating the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Group Counselling and group guidance programs to promote healthy internet use of university students. African Educational Research Journal, 10(1), 14-27. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072519

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)

Study 15037

Kvarme, L. G., Helseth, S., Sørum, R., Luth-Hansen, V., Haugland, S., & Natvig, G. K. (2010). The effect of a solution-focused approach to improve self-efficacy in socially withdrawn school children: a non-randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 47(11), 1389-1396. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2010.05.001

This study is ineligible for review because it is not a study of the program or service under review (Handbook Version 2.0, Section 4.1.9)