What form of mental health therapy works best for a patient who is highly resistant and has low motivation for intervention?

• A. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• B. Long-term psychotherapy
• C. Brief therapy, solution-focused
• D. Group therapy sessions

Answer: (C)

Brief therapy, solution-focused is particularly effective for patients who exhibit high resistance and low motivation because it centers on identifying and resolving specific problems in a limited timeframe. This approach allows clients to quickly engage with therapy without feeling overwhelmed by the idea of long-term commitment or extensive exploration of their past. It emphasizes the patient's strengths and resources and encourages them to envision their desired outcomes, fostering a sense of agency and motivation for change.

The structured nature of brief, solution-focused therapy can help patients feel more comfortable and less resistant, as it often involves setting attainable goals and implementing actionable steps. This can be particularly beneficial for someone who may be ambivalent about engaging in therapy, encouraging them to take small steps toward improvement. By focusing on solutions rather than only problems, this modality can help spark motivation and create a sense of progress and achievement early in the therapeutic process.