Teaching SF Practice in an SF Way: Exploring the Space Between Learning and Doing by Matvey Berkhin, Anna Sokolova, and Ekaterina Gorina, Russia
Our workshop offers a hands-on, interactive exploration of how Solution-Focused (SF) principles can be applied to teaching SF practice itself. We will focus on the "in-between" space—between theory and practice, teaching and learning, and trainer and participant and between trainers themself —where transformation and growth occur. Through engaging exercises and collaborative activities, participants will experience how SF techniques can create a dynamic, supportive learning environment. We will begin with a brief introduction to SF teaching methods, followed by practical exercises where participants will role-play as both learners and trainers. This will highlight how SF tools can foster creativity, collaboration, and confidence in educational settings. The workshop will conclude with a reflective discussion on how these methods can be applied in their own contexts. By emphasizing the "in-between" as a space of potential and connection, our workshop aligns with the conference theme and invites participants to step into new ways of thinking and interacting.
We are a team of three psychologists and Solution Focused (SF) practitioners from Russia: Matvei Berkhin, Anna Sokolova, and Ekaterina Gorina. Together, we conduct SF trainings and workshops, sharing practical tools and insights with professionals across various fields. Our collaborative approach emphasizes creativity, interaction, and the transformative power of the "in-between" spaces in learning and practice. A key focus of our work is supporting children, teenagers, and families.
We actively teach the Kids’ Skills approach—a method that helps children develop skills through play and collaboration—and train professionals to become Kids’ Skills facilitators. Additionally, we offer an extensive SF training course for psychologists, equipping them with practical tools and techniques to apply the approach in their work. We also work with school teams, teaching them how to support and engage with children through an SF lens. We are passionate about helping others discover the potential of SF methods in their professional and personal growth, particularly in working with younger generations, families, and educational systems.