WORDS MATTER: Solution Focused Brief Therapy and the language of hope and change

2 General HPCSA CPD Points

Pre-Recorded for you to complete at your convenience

One of Steve de Shazer’s books is called; “Words were originally magic” and as Solution Focused therapist’s we are extremely aware of the words we use. We believe that change happens on a language level and therefore we are mindful and skilled at being selective in the way in which we reframe a narrative, reflect on an emotion and ask a question. Ben Furman a renowned Solution Focused psychiatrist in Finland shares his insights on how a therapist has a choice and can choose which words he/ she uses to normalize a situation. Words matter!

One of the most amazing things Solution Focused Therapy has taught me is to use pre-suppositional language and to be intentional with what I say and how I reflect. The art of using pre-suppositional language is HOPE filled and suggests possibility and change. As John Henden (UK) says in the interview we will watch; “it conveys a subconscious message of hope and possibility”. As therapists we have control over our language and becoming selective, strategic and intentional with our words we can bring about hope and change. I really think that this is magic!