Working Relationally with Young People

Bringing together a diverse range of contributors to explore the theory, practice and potential of working relationally as partner rather than expert with troubled young people to effect meaningful change in mental health contexts and beyond. This book explores the growing interest in and demand for relational mental health support for young people, parents, families and communities. Relational approaches place an emphasis on authentic and mutual connections; the therapist is not an aloof expert, but an engaged human being who is an active part of the process, and who draws on subjective experiences and passions in the service of the client. Through eighteen contributed chapters and four short case studies, Working Relationally with Young People explores the theory, practice and delivery of Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and its relational mindset in youth mental health and wellbeing, and makes the case for prioritising a relational way of working across all services and support for young people whether they be within children and young people s mental health, or in other contexts such as education, social care or youth work.