Solution Focused Coaching
A strengths-based, future-oriented approach to change
This compilation is an educational resource developed by the British School of Coaching. This series is compiled as a foundational resource for coaches in training. Each article introduces a practical coaching tool or model, grounded in theory and supported by real-world application. Whether you’re preparing for ILM coaching qualifications or looking to deepen your understanding of best practice in coaching, this series offers research-informed insights to strengthen your coaching toolkit.
Solution Focused Coaching is a powerful approach grounded in the belief that people are resourceful, capable, and already on the path toward their preferred future. Rather than spending time analysing problems, this method asks: What’s already working—and how can we do more of it?
Rooted in the work of Mark McKergow and Paul Jackson (2002), Solution Focused Coaching has been widely adopted in leadership, education, mental health, and organisational change due to its pragmatic and motivating nature.
What Makes Solution Focused Coaching Different?
Unlike traditional models that centre on diagnosing and fixing problems, the Solution Focused approach:
✅ Focuses on solutions, not problems
✅ Looks to the future, not the past
✅ Builds on strengths, not weaknesses
✅ Seeks out what is working, not what is broken
✅ Moves clients forward with small, practical steps
This approach is especially effective in coaching because it builds confidence, fosters ownership, and generates momentum.
Key Assumptions of Solution Focused Coaching
- Change is inevitable and already happening
- People already have the resources they need
- Small changes can lead to big transformations
- The coach’s role is to create the conditions for discovery—not give advice
- Every case is unique, requiring curiosity, not prescription
“Find what works—and do more of it.”
“If it doesn’t work—stop doing it.”
SIMPLE Principles of Solution Focus
The acronym SIMPLE captures the heart of this methodology:
- Solutions – not problems
- In-between – progress happens in relationships and interactions
- Make use of what is there – leverage existing strengths and resources
- Possibilities – past, present, and future
- Language – keep it simple and constructive
- Every case is different – avoid standardised thinking
This simplicity is not naïve—it is strategic. The goal is to avoid over-complication and stay focused on practical change.
Six Core Tools of Solution Focused Coaching
-
The Platform
The starting point. What’s happening now that the client wants to be different? -
The Future Perfect
A clear and detailed vision of the preferred future. What will life/work look like when the issue is resolved? -
Counters
Resources, capabilities, and actions already in place. What’s working—however small? -
The Scale
A rating tool (e.g., 1–10) to assess progress. Where are you now, and what would move you up one point? -
Recognition and Affirmation
Acknowledging strengths and progress. What have you done that’s helped? -
Small Actions
Immediate, achievable steps that bring the client closer to their goal. What’s one thing you could try this week?
How It Feels in Coaching Practice
Solution Focused Coaching is:
- Light – It avoids heavy problem-talk.
- Empowering – Clients feel heard, encouraged, and energised.
- Non-directive – Coaches stay curious and let the client lead.
- Scalable – It works with individuals, teams, and large systems.
Practical Questions You Might Hear in a Session
- “What’s already going well?”
- “How will you know things have improved?”
- “When has this not been a problem?”
- “What would you be doing differently if this was resolved?”
- “What’s the smallest step you could take?”
Coaching Outcomes: What the Research Shows
Research has shown that solution focused methods improve:
- Goal clarity and motivation (Grant, 2012)
- Performance and engagement in teams (Jackson & McKergow, 2002)
- Resilience and wellbeing in individuals (O’Connell & Palmer, 2008)
References:
- Jackson, P. Z., & McKergow, M. (2002). The Solutions Focus: Making Coaching and Change SIMPLE. Nicholas Brealey.
- Grant, A. M. (2012). Making Positive Change: A Randomised Study of Solution-Focused Coaching.
- O’Connell, B., & Palmer, S. (2008). Solution-Focused Coaching in Practice. Routledge.
- ICF (2023). Core Coaching Competencies. www.coachingfederation.org
