Solution-Building Conversations: Co-Constructing a Sense of Competence with Clients

Abstract

The authors examine the social constructionist nature of solution-focused therapy. The therapy's components are illustrated through the presentation of a first-session conversation between Insoo Kim Berg as therapist and a 19-year-old mother, who states that she is “stressed out and depressed.” As the conversation develops, the young mother's sense of herself changes and the integration of the therapy's components become apparent. Next, existing outcome research is reviewed. Although descriptive in nature and limited in scope, research suggests positive outcomes for diverse clients and presenting problems. Finally, several connections are made between solution-focused procedures and social constructionist theory: the social construction of reality, language as the medium and substance of meaning, client change through the construction of new meanings, the client as expert, taking a collaborative stance, reflexivity, drawing on client strengths, and solutions as co-constructions.