A Way of Being: Integration of Possible Selves Into Solution-Focused Therapy

Abstract

The concept of possible selves offers solution-focused therapists another way to talk with clients and construct meaning. By integrating possible selves into solution-focused therapy, the therapeutic conversation shifts to a focus on "being." This shift allows clients to create goals based on hoped-for selves and address concrete steps with a focus on "doing" to help them realize their goals. By focusing on being, clients see possibilities for the future where they find meaning and motivation. The authors provide a comparison of solutionfocused therapy to the concept of possible selves and offer a case study to illustrate how possible selves might enhance current solution-focused practice.