The Strength Based approach to therapy is using a person’s history of adversity to empower them to effectively cope with current problems. During the therapeutic process both client and therapist will work in reviewing what has helped the client in the past, why it worked, and how those same skills can be used in the present situation. The strength based approach also faciliates looking at the problem from different perspectives to broaden opportunities.

This approach can be used with people of all ages. From a child who is struggling with homework (strength is the child’s attempts) to an adult who has suffered the death of a loved one (strength is the survival characteristics). Every human being has inner strength, sometimes we just need a little guidance to recognize it and use it effectively.

Social workers put the strength perspective at the center of the counselling relationship because it highlights  the individual's independence, resilience, ability to make choices and provides a sense of hope.