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Purpose: This article presents a pilot study exploring the applicability of a linguistically adapted, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) program, implemented by social workers in Chilean primary care. Method: We completed a single-case design with eight replications. To analyze the results of the program on participants’ alcohol use and other related variables, we conducted visual and percentage of nonoverlapping data analyses. Results: Social workers successfully implemented 10 of the 13 SFBT techniques. Although results need to be interpreted with caution, positive trends were observed. Participants increased their “percentage of days abstinent,” diminished “consequences of alcohol use,” decreased their “depression index,” and increased their “self-reported well-being.” Discussion: Results are consistent with previous studies on SFBT and alcohol use. Exception and coping questions may serve to increase abstinent days. SFBT focus on issues other than alcohol that are important to clients could help to reduce harm on individuals who use alcohol.

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a resource-based, future-oriented therapeutic approach that focuses on finding exceptions to problems and identifying coping strategies to build solutions. SFBT has been efficacious with individuals with alcohol use disorders. Chile experiences high levels of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related health consequences. Despite the international dissemination of SFBT, this is the first study to attempt a linguistic adaptation of SFBT in a Latin American country. We conducted 9 cognitive interviews to examine 13 translated main SFBT tools and 3 focus groups to gather information on cultural aspects of alcohol use in primary care. Results suggest that Chileans understood most SFBT tools, albeit with some linguistic modifications of original translations, and that family, gender, and meaningful issues should be considered when working with individuals with alcohol use disorders.

This article reviews all the published and non-published outcome studies that were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-experimental designs on solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) conducted with Latinos within the United States and Latin America. Data search included 18 databases for published articles, three databases for dissertations, and other sources of information. Forty-four studies met the criteria for a full-text review and, of those, six studies met criteria for this systematic review. Studies of SFBT with Latinos were conducted in adult mental health, children and adolescents in school, and couples, revealing positive outcomes on the effects of SFBT on standardized measures and participant goals.

This chapter describes how SFBT has been used in the treatment of substance use and relies on the clinical literature to illustrate interventions. Specific ways to engage clients with substance use will be covered, including the questions to ask in order to promote change. In addition, this chapter will describe a case where SFBT has been used with a client with alcohol use disorder and explain how SFBT may be used in groups to treat substance use. Finally, this chapter will discuss the emerging outcome literature on SFBT with clients who have substance use including studies that assess substance use and trauma.