Neuroscience: A New Direction for Solution-Focused Thinkers?

The development of highly sophisticated imaging techniques in the past 20 years has made it possible for neuroscientists to study the brain like never before. The resulting findings, particularly about emotions, are challenging psychotherapists of all orientations to reevaluate their theories and practices. These considerations are a particularly daunting task for therapists whose work reflects the post-modern denial of objective reality, like that of Solution-Focused therapists. In this article, the authors have juxtaposed solution-focused theory and practice with some key neuroscientific ideas in order to explore fit and incompatibility. Possible benefits for Solution-Focused practice are discussed.