Location: Online, self-paced

Solution-focused brief counseling (SFBC) is an effective approach that emphasizes finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. This short-term, goal-oriented strategy focuses on identifying past exceptions to issues and planning for future progress. In SFBC, the school counselor collaborates with students to identify their strengths and resources, developing a plan for positive change. This model empowers students by allowing them to take the lead in identifying solutions, increasing their commitment to change. By focusing on solutions, students, families and others boost their confidence and motivation. When school counselors, teachers and families prioritize solutions over problems, the process becomes more efficient and empowering. School counselors using SFBC methods find their sessions more positive and less stressful, enhancing the overall counseling experience. View the syllabus.

Learning Objectives: 
After completing this course, you will be able to: 

• Identify six key principles of SFBC
• Describe three major guidelines for practicing SFBC
• List the unique advantages of using the SFBC approach
• Summarize common myths and realities about SFBC
• Describe SFBC interview methods
• List a five-step SFBC/conferencing change process
• Understand four ways to reframe complaints and wishes to SMART goals
• Explain a four-step procedure to systematically foster solution-focused collaborations among the school counselor, student, families and teachers
• Produce a three-part solution-focused message
• Recognize effective solution-focused group leadership
• Summarize the four components of the second and subsequent SFBC meetings using the EARS model
• Apply the SFBC principles, guidelines and techniques to supervision and comprehensive school counseling program development

Registration Fee
For $99 ($249 for nonmembers), you can earn 5 CEUs/50 Contact Hours focused on developing a culturally sustaining school counselig program, all from the comfort of your own home or office. Graduate credit is available for an additional fee.