Pre-conference Workshops > Workshop #9

Strength-Based and Solution-Focused Interventions in Sport Psychology: An Applied Introduction

Date and time: Wednesday May 27^th, afternoon

When working with clients Sport and Exercise Psychologists have implemented a ‘problem-focused’ approach, often underpinned by CBT principles (Ludlam et al., 2015). This approach focuses on identifying the root causes of a problem, exploring the negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours present, and seeking to ‘fix’ the issue by implementing techniques such as cognitive restructuring. Overall, there is a focus on ‘why’ a problem is occurring, with little done initially to explore ‘how’ the problem might be overcome (Grant & O’Connor, 2010; Grant, 2012).

However, in recent years practitioners have begun to utilise alternative approaches to working, including both Strength-Based and Solution-Focused techniques. Underpinned by Positive Psychology principles (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000) Strength-Based approaches to practice focus on identifying and developing the qualities and characteristics that allow individuals to thrive and flourish within both their sporting performance and day-to-day life, helping to develop confidence, resilience and a ‘competitive edge’ (Gunning & Smith, 2024; Ludlum et al., 2015). Similarly, Solution-Focused techniques, derived from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (de Shazer, 1985), work on the premise that clients possess the strengths, knowledge, values and strategies to achieve their goals and develop a solution to their problem, even if they are yet to acknowledge or realise this yet (McCormick, 2014; Høigaard & Johansen, 2004). Practitioner therefore focus conversations on ‘Solution-Talk’ over ‘Problem-Talk’ and aim to identify strengths and resources that an athlete possesses in order to move away from a problem and towards a solution that works effectively for them.

Combined, Strength-Based and Solution-Focused interventions provide practitioners with a range of techniques that can be utilised within their work in order to move away from the more traditional approach of ‘fixing’ problems and towards an approach that emphasises strengths, solutions and minimises problem-talk. This workshop aims to introduce participants to both Strength-Based and Solution-Focused approaches that can be used within Sport and Exercise psychology. Participants will be introduced to the underpinning theory of both approaches alongside a range of techniques that I have implemented within my work as an applied practitioner.

Throughout the workshop attendees will have the opportunity to practice a range of Strength-Based Interventions, including identifying strengths, creating a strengths profile and exploring optimal use of strengths in performance. Alongside this, a range of Solution-Focused techniques including Scaling, 10/10 performances and the Miracle Question will be introduced to participants, with opportunities to practice these techniques in ‘real-world’ conversations. Participants will also be provided with resources to support them in the application of Strength-Based and Solution-Focused Interventions within their own applied practice. 

Who Is This Workshop For?

Designed for professionals working in and around sport, including:

• Sport psychologists
• Performance and Mental Skills Consultants
• Coach educators and developers
• Sport coaches
• PE teachers and practitioners working in performance and development contexts

About the Workshop Leader :

• HCPC Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist.
• BPS Chartered Psychologist.
• Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology.

I have been an applied Sport and Exercise for 4 years, having recently completed the BPS Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Within this time, I have worked with a wide range of sports including, Canoe Slalom, Alpine Skiing, Gymnastics, Athletics, Rugby, Football and Cricket. A large portion of my work comes with England Touch Rugby, where I have supported several squads across both World and European competitions, achieving several medals in the process. I also work heavily with youth athletes, focusing on making Sport Psychology engaging and fun through my delivery. I have a particular interest in both Solution-Focused Therapy and Strength-Based approaches, often utilising both of these approaches within my practice.

Alongside my applied practice, I lecturer at the University of Northampton on the BSc Psychological Science of Sport and Exercise Degree. Within this role, I teach across a number of modules, including Sport Psychology in the Digital Age and Team and Group Dynamics within Sport. I am also the UK Country Rep for the European Network of Young Specialists in Sport Psychology.

Outside of work, I am a competitive athlete, representing Herts Phoenix AC over the 400m and 4x400m in the UK National Athletics League.