In this vibrant and energising episode of Toward Solutions, we sit down with Ayse Adil — co-founder of Family Based Solutions — to explore what it means to stay truly client-led.

Ayse shares her journey from early scepticism (“I thought Solution Focus was wishy-washy!”) to becoming a passionate and creative advocates. Drawing on her experience with families, young people, survivors, and those who have used violence, she shows how Solution Focus can flex to meet the moment — even in silence.

Together, we explore how a light touch, a strong intuition, and deep respect can unlock new possibilities, even in complex or high-risk situations. Ayse introduces her metaphor of the “brain librarian,” the surprising power of silent sessions, and how humour, humility, and courage to improvise can shift everything.

We explore:

• Moving from scepticism to living Solution Focus as a way of being
• Preparing families to move from problem-focus to possibility-focus
• Adapting Solution Focus to work with survivors, perpetrators, and children
• Letting go of being “strictly Solution Focus” to stay truly client-led
• Why silence, humour, and mistakes can lead to real change

Ayse’s warmth, honesty, and creativity shine in this conversation.

Find out more about Ayse's work at https://familybasedsolutions.org.uk/