The signature London BRIEF opening question for every follow-up session. It replaces neutral openings such as "How are you?" or "How was your week?" The presupposition matters: "What is better?" assumes that some improvement has already happened and invites the client to search for evidence rather than argue against change. It redirects attention from problem to progress, strengthens agency because the client defines what counts as better, and creates an expectation of noticing progress between sessions.
Step-by-step guide
- Open the session with: "What is better?" or "What is better since we last met?"
- Wait; silence is normal while the client searches memory.
- If the client finds something, move into EARS: amplify, acknowledge, ask what else.
- If the client says "nothing," do not argue; ask coping questions such as "How are you managing?"
- If the client says things got worse, acknowledge the difficulty and ask how they are holding on.
When to use
- At the beginning of every later session.
- As the start of the EARS cycle.
- When the session needs to be quickly oriented toward progress.
Key phrases
What is better?
Follow-up questions
What is better since we last met?
What is better, even a little?
What changes have you noticed?
Alternative phrasings
How are you managing? (if the client cannot find improvement)
What has stayed as good as before? (if nothing is better)
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not insist if the client cannot find improvement; shift to coping questions.
- ⚠️ Do not suggest answers; the client must identify change.
- ⚠️ Do not dismiss "nothing is better"; that is the client's reality.
- ⚠️ Do not use it as the first question in a first session; use Best Hopes there.
Source: Ratner, George & Iveson, 2012; De Jong & Berg, 2002; BRIEF (London)
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.