What are the three different client therapy relationships in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy?

In Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), understanding the three types of client therapy relationships is crucial for effectively addressing clients' needs and facilitating their progress. The classification into Visitor, Complainant, and Customer provides a framework for therapists to recognize the role that clients assume in the therapy process.

The Visitor represents individuals who come to therapy but may not see a problem that requires attention. They might be present due to external pressures, such as being encouraged by someone else to seek help. This relationship highlights the therapist's role in engaging with the client and helping them recognize their own motivations and issues.

The Complainant is someone who acknowledges a problem but is not actively seeking to create change. They often express dissatisfaction and may focus on what is wrong without a clear commitment to pursuing solutions. This relationship underscores the therapist's task of helping clients shift their perspective towards potential solutions and foster a sense of hope.

The Customer takes an active role in the therapy process. They not only recognize a problem, but also demonstrate an eagerness to work collaboratively with the therapist to find solutions and make changes in their life. This relationship is essential for effective SFBT, as it encourages engagement and empowerment, allowing clients to identify their goals and the steps needed to