Narrative and solution-focused therapy are postmodern theories of working with couples and families. In terms of practitioner relationships, both forms of therapy can be viewed as more collaborative t

Identified strengths: Includes strengths that will help client achieve long-term goal(s) (e.g., supportive family). Client should help identify. Initially, it may be difficult to help client identify more than one or two strengths, but as the course of treatment continues, more should become evident.

Identified problems/deficits: Includes factors in client’s life that may impede successful recovery.

Long-Term Goal(s):

Short-Term Goals

Objectives

Strategies

Expected Outcome

(With Time Frame)

Stated as broad desirable outcome that will be broken down into short-term goals and objectives; usually, one long-term goal will be adequate for first year.

Series of time-limited goals that will lead to achievement of long-term goal

Statements of what client will do to achieve short-term goal. Stated in measurable, behavioral terms

How objective will be carried out or accomplished

Objective, measurable desirable outcome with timeframe

Long-Term Goal(s):

Short-Term Goals

Objectives

Strategies

Expected Outcome

(With Time Frame)

Example:

1. John will remain abstinent from use of heroin and all other mood-altering substances and behaviors for 1 year, as demonstrated by negative random drug screens and self-report.

Example:

1. John will successfully complete residential treatment.

Example:

1. John will attend and actively participate in all individual and group counseling sessions.

1. John will admit he has an addiction problem.

Example:

1. Schedule one individual counseling session and five group counseling sessions weekly.

1. John will complete Step One of the Twelve Steps.

Example:

1. Staff and self-report of regular attendance and active participation in individual and group counseling sessions (30 days).

1. Self-report to counselor and members of group sessions (30 days).