SFA operates with the following core assumptions about human beings and the way change occurs:
- Every human being has strengths and resources.
- Nothing is always the same; change is inevitable.
- If something is working do more of it; if something is not working do something else.
- Small steps lead to big changes.
- The solution is not necessarily directly related to the problem.
- No problem happens all the time. There are always exceptions that can be used.
- The future is created and negotiable.
SFA is a very simple method but at the same time requires lots of hard work and persistency to build up the proper mindset. The SFA methodology is focused on the doing level, meaning the focus is on one's behavior. A fundamental belief of SFA is that the client is the expert of his or her own situation. A facilitator using the SFA methodology seeks to lead from behind.