The third type of description used in solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is the future of the outcome. This approach involves envisioning what life would look like if the desired outcome—such as clarity, peace, or self-knowledge—were present in the future. This type of description helps clients imagine the changes that would occur in their lives, allowing them to see the impact of achieving their goals in vivid detail.
Envisioning the Future of the Outcome
The future of the outcome focuses on the client’s ability to describe what would be different if their desired outcome appeared in the future. It involves asking clients to consider the specific changes they would notice in their behaviors, interactions, and overall life if they had achieved clarity, peace, or self-knowledge.
- Exploring Future Changes: The presupposition in this approach is that the presence of the desired outcome will transform many aspects of the client’s life—how they interact with people, how they make decisions, and even simple daily routines. For example, Georgia was asked, “What would you notice that would be different if you woke up and had this kind of clarity?” This question invites clients to explore the profound changes that would come with achieving their desired outcome.
- Identifying Specific Indicators of Change: Georgia described that if she had clarity, she would no longer care what others thought about her. She shared her concerns about what people might think if they found out about her husband’s affairs or her STI. However, she envisioned that with clarity, she would walk with confidence, her shoulders back, her neck long, and her head held high, unaffected by others’ opinions.
Creating a Detailed Picture of the Future
By encouraging clients to describe specific scenarios, the therapist helps them build a detailed picture of their future selves, aligned with their desired outcome.
- Celebrating Important Moments: Georgia imagined celebrating her birthday only with her children, without the presence of others who had previously been part of such occasions. This realization provided her with clarity about the decisions she needed to make regarding her relationships. She recognized that if clarity and peace were present, her husband would not be, leading her to lean towards a decision about her marriage.
- Living with Presence and Love: Another detail Georgia shared was that she would treat the children and parents at her school with presence and love. She explained that she initially got into this work because she knew she had love to give and wanted to provide it to those who needed it. Living with clarity meant being fully present and showing love, reinforcing her sense of purpose and direction.
- Retirement Vision: Georgia also described retiring to her home country in the Caribbean, seeking “Caribbean happiness” with a simple, small house. She articulated that such a decision would reflect putting her needs first, a value she wanted to pass on to her children—that it is okay to prioritize self-care.
The Role of Language in Shaping the Future
Throughout this envisioning process, the language used is critical. The therapist refrains from directing or solving problems but instead asks questions that help clients connect their current actions and decisions with their desired future.
- Avoiding Directives and Suggestions: Rather than suggesting specific actions or providing homework, the therapist might ask, “What have you noticed as you’ve gone throughout this process that you are most pleased with?” or “What signs would let you know you are carrying this forward in a meaningful way?” These questions allow clients to express their insights and plan their future actions based on their self-reflection.
- Maintaining Client Autonomy and Agency: The SFBT approach is centered on co-constructing the conversation with the client, ensuring their autonomy is respected. The therapist avoids imposing their own perspective, instead focusing on eliciting the client’s understanding of how they want to move forward.
Wrapping Up the Process
At the conclusion of the SFBT process, it is essential to close the session in a way that honors the client’s autonomy and the collaborative nature of the work.
- Expression of Gratitude: The therapist expresses gratitude to the client for their participation, openness, and collaboration. A simple “Thank you for being here and contributing to a meaningful interaction” reinforces the therapeutic alliance and acknowledges the client’s effort.
- Encouraging Continued Autonomy: The therapist emphasizes that the client is welcome to return at any time, reinforcing their autonomy and agency. This openness allows clients to know they have control over their therapeutic journey and can seek further support if needed.
Conclusion
Envisioning the future in SFBT helps clients create a detailed picture of what life could look like with their desired outcomes achieved. By asking questions that focus on the differences this future would bring, therapists help clients articulate their values, goals, and the changes they want to see. The process concludes with gratitude and encouragement for the client to continue using their agency and autonomy to shape their path forward.