ABSTRACT
The use of scale questions and the Miracle Question were the most prominent and eye-catching innovations that carved out a niche in the already crowded world of psychotherapy models. Soon, these techniques became the icons of the solution-focused approach.
Simplicity however comes at a price. Too often the solution-focused approach is reduced to these techniques.
This chapter explores the richness that lies within the two techniques and exposes the linguistic complexities behind what at first appear to be simple techniques.
Numbers on a scale, and particularly the difference between the numbers, are tools to help the client create differentiation. This chapter contains an overview of seven types of scaling questions and offers ten tips for the optimal use of scaling questions.
The future orientation underlies the use of the Miracle Question. The process of the unfolding conversational cycle of questions and answers is more important than the mere content of the client’s answers. We deconstruct this wonderful (“full of wonders”) technique to its linguistic components, so that the underlying solution-focused epistemology surfaces.
The usefulness question and the coping question are Occam Razor-like sharp tools that drive the client’s resilience toward an ever-increasing capacity for change.
