Thriving in the Grey: The Influence of a Solution-Focused Approach in Student Affairs

Using a single case study, this study describes how one new student affairs professional applies her training in solution-focused (SF) counseling as a method for self-care, as well as for helping her students. Participant used 14 specific skills that are unique to SF work in her work with students, and she also applied the model to herself, which allowed her to see obstacles as opportunities and avoid burnout. A SF approach as an integrated curriculum in student affairs coursework might help future professionals to develop the basic and more advanced competencies needed for student affairs work, as well as impact their ability to sustain a positive mindset for self-care