ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 addresses the dichotomy between a client’s need to talk about problems and a therapist’s duty to facilitate solutions. Problem talk is important for hearing and understanding a client’s definition of the problem; but there needs to be an early transition to learn about strengths, goals, exceptions, and problem-solving history. Solution therapists understand the importance of learning a client’s language and how change happens for that client during the intake process. It can be powerful to switch gears and move into a client’s experience, solving problems during the client history and cultural assessment, and employing neurolinguistic language and question sequences that empower clients to live into their solutions. Eliciting those solutions rather than telling a client what to do will more often result in authentic change. A collaborative relationship with the client positioned as the “expert” is ultimately the path that leads to change dynamics that are powerful and lasting.
