Solution-focused and resource-oriented

Our professional stance

We apply systemic approaches in general and solution-focused approaches in particular.

We assume that our clients possess the general knowledge and capabilities to handle their problems. We provide a sheltered environment and facilitate sessions that enable our clients to reconnect with their personal, social and intellectual resources. The effectiveness of solution-focused practices has been positively evaluated in international outcome studies and is reflected by our own evaluations and experiences.

Our guiding principles: Relationality, creativity, reflexivity

Relationality

Counselling is relational in two ways. First, it unfolds in a supportive relationship and seeks to establish appreciative dialogue. Second, individual concerns never exist in isolation but are embedded within a system of agents and relevant contexts. The counselling process therefore explores the qualities and forms of existing relationships and seeks to identify previously unrecognised possibilities for shaping relationships.

Creativity

Using creative methods and experimental practices in the counselling process facilitates changing perspective and accessing existing, yet hidden resources. This perspective widens the scope of action and builds clients’ confidence.

Reflexivity

Counselling is a reflexive practice: It involves reflecting on the goals, context and outcome of counselling as well as on the client’s values, perceptions and actions. Reflexivity is an emancipatory process in which clients can challenge their assumptions and thus increase their scope of possibilities.