Online SFBT therapy for kids, teens, and parents
Focusing on solutions, strengths, and what's already working
SFBT helps young people find what to change, discover their strengths, and build real solutions. It usually takes fewer sessions than traditional therapy.
Insurance accepted. Appointments often available within days.
Covered by insurance · Licensed clinicians · Start within 48 hours
Covered by insurance · Licensed clinicians · Start within 48 hours
teens, & families
SFBT, at a glance
86% effective
Clients report positive outcomes in behavioral, emotional, and relational domains (Kim & Franklin, 2009).
3-6 sessions
Typical range for SFBT, one of the shortest evidence-based therapy approaches.
Strengths-based
Focuses on what is already working and amplifies it, rather than dwelling on problems.
What is SFBT?
How solution-focused brief therapy works for young people.
SFBT moves the conversation from problems to solutions. Instead of talking about what went wrong, it helps young people see their ideal future and plan next steps.
SFBT believes kids already have strengths and tools to make change. They just need help finding and using them. Teens like this way because it's not all about their problems.
SFBT was created by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. It's been studied a lot with kids, teens, and families.
Evidence-Based
Backed by clinical research and validated outcomes.
SFBT moves the conversation from problems to solutions. Instead of talking about what went wrong, it helps young people see their ideal future and plan next steps.
SFBT believes kids already have strengths and tools to make change. They just need help finding and using them. Teens like this way because it's not all about their problems.
SFBT was created by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg. It's been studied a lot with kids, teens, and families.
Core SFBT techniques
The tools your child's therapist will use.
The Miracle Question
- Imagining life when the problem is solved
- Creating a vivid picture of the preferred future
- Identifying small signs of change already happening
- Building motivation through possibility-focused thinking
Scaling Questions
- Rating current progress on a 1-10 scale
- Identifying what's already working (even a little)
- Setting concrete, achievable next steps
- Tracking progress in a visual, tangible way
Exception Finding
- Discovering times the problem doesn't happen
- Identifying what's different during successful moments
- Amplifying existing strengths and coping strategies
- Building on natural competencies and resources
Complimenting & Coping
- Recognizing and affirming client strengths
- Highlighting resilience and past successes
- Coping questions that uncover hidden competence
- Building self-efficacy through acknowledgment
How SFBT helps
Real results for young people.
- Fast positive change in fewer sessions
- Builds belief in yourself and confidence
- Puts young people in charge of their own change
- Works for many types of behavior and emotion problems
- Teens like it because it's not all about problems
- Focuses on strengths, reduces shame
Who benefits from SFBT
Common applications for children and teens.
Behavioral & Academic
- School-related behavioral challenges
- Academic motivation and performance
- Goal-setting and future planning
- Adjustment to transitions
Emotional & Social
- Self-esteem and self-confidence
- Peer relationship difficulties
- Mild to moderate anxiety and depression
- Family communication challenges
Why families choose Emora for SFBT
Real SFBT therapists vs. others.
General providers
Therapists trained in SFBT methods
Problem-focused approach that can make kids feel worse
Strengths-based approach that gives power to young people
Focuses on what's wrong without building on strengths
Short, efficient therapy with clear goals
No set end date for therapy
Combined with other proven therapies when needed
Only one type of therapy without changes
Tracks progress from day one
Doesn't track results well
Get started in minutes
Three simple steps to connect with the right clinician.
- 1
Share what's going on
Tell us about your child's goals and what you'd like to see change.
- 2
Verify coverage
See insurance estimates and available appointment times.
- 3
Start therapy
Meet your matched therapist and start building on strengths from session one.
Frequently asked questions
What parents ask most about SFBT.
SFBT works with kids as young as 5 or 6 through adulthood. It changes based on age. Younger kids use pictures and play-based ideas. Teens talk about ideas.
Yes. Research shows SFBT works in 3 to 6 sessions for many problems. It's made to create quick change by using what's already working. Some kids need more sessions for harder problems.
No. SFBT sees the problem but focuses energy on solutions. It's based on research showing that talking about solutions works faster than deep analysis of the problem.
CBT looks at and changes thought patterns step by step. SFBT looks for times when the problem doesn't happen, sees a hoped-for future, and builds on strengths. SFBT is usually shorter and less strict than CBT.
Yes. SFBT works well with other types of therapy. Many therapists mix SFBT questions with CBT, DBT, or family therapy. The strengths focus works with almost any other proven therapy.
Real stories of growth
Every session is rated by parents. Our therapists maintain a 4.9+ average, because results matter.
This was a great initial session. We’re looking forward to continue care.
Parent of a 10 year old
Sep 6, 2026
Ericka Jarvis, LCMHC
Being new to this process we think Morgan did a great job of introducing us, outlining several strategies she felt would improve our daughter’s situation, and perhaps most importantly, had chemistry with our daughter.
Parent of a 7 year old
Sep 5, 2026
Morgan Tulley, RCSWI
The counseling went well. We’re learning more about ourselves. Thank you for helping us out!
Parent of a 14 year old
Sep 5, 2026
My therapist is extremely knowledgeable and is able to guide through finding out what the issue is without just telling me outright. She is also someone I can feel comfortable opening up to.
An Adult client
Sep 5, 2026
Rachael Wade, LPC Associate
Very caring and very thoughtful
An Adult client
Sep 5, 2026
Dr. Jesse Wallace, LMFT
I had a really good therapy session yesterday. I felt comfortable, heard, and supported throughout the entire session. It was a positive experience, and I appreciated having a safe space to talk openly without feeling judged. I left the session feeling better and more encouraged. I’m looking forward to continuing my sessions.
An Adult client
Sep 5, 2026
Analinda Rice, LMFT-Associate
Catherine was insightful and engaging. Appreciate the time she took getting to know our family and connecting us to a therapist.
Parent of a 13 year old
Sep 5, 2026
Catherine Campos, LCSW
Great recommendations to help me have a better communication with my wife , thank You so much !!
An Adult client
Sep 5, 2026
Paola Oseguera, LPC
It was good like someone understanding me
Parent of a 10 year old
Sep 5, 2026
Jasmine Eubanks, LPC
Dr. Apree addressed our fears and concerns regarding our daughter’s evaluation. She is so thoughtful. I feel like our daughter will have a ton of support.
Parent of a 15 year old
Sep 4, 2026
Dr. Apree Clicque, PsyD
She was amazing my son loved her and she made us feel heard!!
Parent of a 14 year old
Sep 4, 2026
Elizabeth Lopez, LCSW
She was just really nice and I appreciated that.
Parent of a 13 year old
Sep 4, 2026
Megan Lundy, LCSW
Another wonderful session. I feel truly blessed with Elsie. She is extremely an amazing person.
Parent of a 12 year old
Sep 4, 2026
Elsie Peña, LPC
Eduardo was an amazing Therapist. I felt the great vibe and connection with him on our 1st visit. I’m really looking forward to seeing him again and our progress we’ll make throughout the Journey. I would rate him a 10/10 and would recommended him to anyone.
An Adult client
Sep 4, 2026
Eduardo Santana, LCSW
It’s hard for me describe my inner experience. I still felt heard and seen though I struggled during our call. I felt emotionally supported and reassured. I feel hopeful that this was a step in the right direction.
An Adult client
Sep 4, 2026
Dr. Liz Nitsch, PsyD
Dr. Clicque makes me feel very comfortable and supported during our sessions. I feel that she creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where I can openly express my thoughts and feelings. She is attentive, understanding, and genuinely listens to me. I feel that her approach has made it easier for me to feel comfortable opening up.
An Adult client
Sep 4, 2026
Dr. Apree Clicque, PsyD
I love how the provider made me feel comfortable, accepted, and heard. Did not rush me off, listened and provided great feedback.
An Adult client
Sep 4, 2026
Shannon Anes, PMHNP
Daniel focused on my daughter‘s strengths and was very tactful in leading the conversation about medication and diagnosis in front of my child.
Parent of a 10 year old
Sep 4, 2026
Danielle Abali, RCSWI
Your child already has what it takes to change
SFBT helps young people find their strengths and use them to solve problems.
Not sure where to start? Book a matching session.
