Solution-Focused Interviewing illustrates a three step, self-directed approach to helping others which utilizes client strengths and resources, rather than expert driven problem discussions and solutions. An adaptation of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, solution-focused interviewing is directed at all helping professionals who are interested in learning how to incorporate strength-based questions and strategies into their professional practice. There are basically two approaches to conducting helping interviews with regard to the psychosocial issues involved. What distinguishes the dialogue of these two different approaches is the nature of the questions asked. Questions which are directed at fostering understanding of what is wrong, and particularly any kind of problem exploration or analysis, can be described as problem-focused and thus deficit based. Strength-based questions, in contrast, are directed at discovering what the client wants to do about the problem, and at expanding awareness of the many options available. These options evolve from uncovering client strengths and resources which are then utilized to build solutions to the problem. The knowledge and skills to formulate strength-based questions, and facilitate the transition from “problem-talk” to “solution-talk” is the focus on this book. The emerging field of Positive Psychology shifts the emphasis from what is wrong with people toward how people live happy and fulfilling lives. The practice of solution-focused interviewing , it is argued, represents a Positive Psychology application, and in this regard the book offers examples of how to also be helpful to family and friends by learning strength-based questions and strategies. --- from the publisher | 
