National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) Practice Exam

Which approach primarily focuses on solutions rather than problems?

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

2. Psychodynamic Therapy

3. Solution Focused Brief Therapy

4. Client-Centered Therapy

The correct answer is: Solution Focused Brief Therapy

Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes finding solutions and creating a vision for a desired future rather than delving deeply into problems or the history behind them. SFBT is structured around the belief that clients have the resources and strengths necessary to change their situations and focuses on what clients want to achieve in their lives. It encourages individuals to explore their own solutions through a goal-oriented and future-focused lens, often using techniques such as scaling questions and the "miracle question" to help clarify goals and identify steps toward achieving them. In contrast, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy primarily concentrates on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that may be impacting behavior and emotions. Psychodynamic Therapy delves into unconscious processes and previous experiences, typically examining the past to understand current behaviors and emotions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and provides an accepting, empathetic environment but may not specifically target solutions in the way that SFBT does. Thus, the focus of Solution Focused Brief Therapy on solutions rather than problems distinctly characterizes its approach among the options available.