Solution-Focused Therapy Vancouver
Brief Goal Oriented Counselling
You don’t have to have it all figured out to start making changes. Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief, goal-oriented approach that helps you focus on what’s working, envision what’s possible, and take practical steps forward. Rather than spending months unpacking the past, SFT invites you to identify your strengths, clarify your goals, and start creating meaningful change—one step at a time.
At ARC, we offer Solution-Focused Therapy as a flexible approach for clients who feel stuck or overwhelmed and want something concrete to move towards. If you’re looking for a collaborative, action-based approach to therapy, SFT may be a good fit.
Feeling stuck but unsure where to begin?
Therapy doesn’t have to start at the beginning. Maybe you just need some support in making a decision, building confidence, or working through a specific situation. SFT helps you focus on where you want to go, rather than getting lost in where you’ve been.
You may benefit from SFT if you are:
- Facing a transition or decision and need clarity
- Wanting to make changes but are feeling overwhelmed
- Struggling with motivation or follow-through
- Trying to improve communication or relationships
- Looking for short-term support with a focused goal
- Interested in learning what already works—and doing more of it
How Solution-Focused Therapy can help
SFT is a collaborative, strengths-based model rooted in the belief that change is always possible. Instead of focusing on problems, it focuses on solutions—small, realistic, and empowering ones.
Your ARC therapist will help you:
- Clarify what change would look like in your life
- Identify times when the problem is less present or more manageable
- Build on your strengths and existing resources
- Set meaningful, achievable goals
- Develop strategies to move toward your desired future
- Stay accountable and supported as you make progress
Whether you’re seeking practical tools or a new perspective, SFT helps you create forward movement.
Let's move forward, one step at a time
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin. Solution-Focused Therapy helps you tap into your own strengths and take meaningful steps toward the life you want—at a pace that feels right for you.
At ARC, we offer SFT in a thoughtful, collaborative way that centers your goals. Whether you’re facing a specific challenge or looking to create more balance and direction, we’re here to support what’s next.
Meet Our Vancouver Therapists
Tianna Bobariu
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Amenda Kumar
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Kristen Rattray
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Kiana Maeda
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Jack Wong
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Danielle Simpson
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Elise Millett
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Lilian Wang
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
Getting The Help You Need is Easy
Reach Out
Fill out our easy contact form. All we need is your basic info, and a few words about what brings you to therapy.
Free Consultation
We’ll reach out to schedule your complimentary consultation. We’ll discuss your goals, questions, and make sure we’re the right fit.
Start Therapy
Feeling ready? We’ll book your first session and create a personalized plan to help you live the life you deserve.
What to Expect in Solution-Focused Therapy
Exploring What Brought You In
We start by understanding what you’re hoping will feel different. This may be something very specific—or more general, like wanting to feel less overwhelmed or more confident.
Clarifying the Desired Future
We'll support you in describing what life would look like if the problem were solved or better managed. Even if it feels far away, this vision gives us a direction to move toward.
Identifying Exceptions & Strengths
We’ll look at when the issue feels less intense or more manageable. What’s already working? What strengths have helped you through challenges in the past? These moments offer valuable clues.
Setting Goals & Taking Action
Together, we'll co-create practical steps that feel realistic and meaningful—no massive overhauls, just small shifts that build momentum and confidence.
Reflecting, Adjusting, and Building On What Works
Therapy becomes a space to reflect on progress, celebrate wins, and adjust as needed. Even small steps forward can create lasting change.
Sustaining Progress & Moving Forward
As therapy wraps up, we’ll reflect on what’s shifted, and what you want to take with you. You’ll leave with a stronger sense of your own strengths and the tools to keep building the life you want—long after sessions end.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)?
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a collaborative, goal-oriented approach that emphasizes your existing strengths and what’s already working. Instead of focusing on problems, SFT helps you identify small, meaningful steps toward change—often with noticeable results in just a few sessions. It’s practical, empowering, and forward-looking.
Is SFT only for short-term therapy?
Not necessarily. While SFT is often used in brief or time-limited therapy, it can also be part of a longer-term process—especially when integrated with other approaches. At ARC, we tailor the process to your needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for quick tools or deeper ongoing support.
Will we still talk about my past or deeper emotions?
If past experiences or strong emotions arise, your therapist will hold space for them with care. But in general, SFT focuses more on the present and future. It’s less about unpacking everything, and more about exploring what’s possible and how to move toward it—step by step.
What kinds of issues does SFT help with?
SFT can be helpful for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, stress, life transitions, decision-making, confidence, and relationship challenges. It’s especially effective when you want to work on a specific issue, build momentum, or clarify a goal.
How is SFT different from other types of therapy?
SFT focuses on solutions, not problems. It’s typically more structured, strength-based, and future-oriented than other forms of therapy. Rather than analyzing symptoms in depth, we focus on what’s already helping—and how to build on that in practical ways. That said, it can also be combined with deeper approaches when needed.
Can SFT still help if I feel stuck or unmotivated?
Yes. SFT is designed to meet you exactly where you are—even if motivation feels low or you’re unsure what you want. Your therapist will help you notice small signs of movement, even in the stuck places, and gently guide you toward what feels possible. You don’t need to feel fully ready—just open to exploring the next step.
How long does SFT usually take?
Some clients find just a few sessions (4–6) helpful for a focused concern. Others continue longer, or use SFT alongside other approaches. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline—your goals, preferences, and progress will guide the length of therapy.
Is SFT covered by insurance?
Yes. Most extended health plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor. We’ll provide a detailed receipt you can submit for reimbursement—many clients receive their reimbursement within a few business days.
How do I start therapy?
The first step is to reach out and book a complimentary 30-minute consultation. This gives you the opportunity to meet with one of our therapists, ask questions, and get a feel for whether SFT is the right fit for your needs and goals.
If it feels like a match, we’ll work with you to find a session time that fits your schedule and begin setting goals for therapy. If not, we’ll help you find another therapist or approach that may be a better fit. Our priority is helping you get the support that’s right for you.
A Message of Support from Our Director
Hi, I’m Kelsey, the Clinical Director here at ARC. I want to start by saying something that doesn’t get said enough – it’s okay to need support.
If you’re reading this, you might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not yourself. At ARC, we understand how deeply personal it is to reach out for help. That’s why we’re so intentional about the care we offer. Every therapist on our team is here because they lead with heart, they know their stuff, and they truly care about helping people feel better.
We also know that feeling safe in therapy means feeling seen and respected. That’s why we’re committed to creating an inclusive space – one that honours your identity, your culture, and your lived experience.
My role is to make sure your experience here is thoughtful, safe, and meaningful – from your very first point of contact to the support you receive in therapy. If you’re unsure about where to start, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I’ll personally take the time to read your request and match you with one of the therapists on our team.
You’ve already taken the first step by being here. When you’re feeling ready, take the next step by reaching out – and we’ll walk the rest of the way together.
Take the next step towards feeling better today
Location
470 Granville St, #922
Vancouver, BC, V6C 1V5
Our Hours
Mon – Fri: 09:00 – 21:30
Sat – Sun: 09:00 – 20:30