Working Relationally with Young People: A Cognitive Analytic Approach to Connecting One to One, with Families and Across Communities

by Lee Crothers, Nick Barnes

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. Contributions from across the CAT community, and from young people themselves, demonstrate the opportunities and possibilities of working in relational ways. The title is much-needed as there is a major gap in the CAT literature around working with youth, and relational mental health is fast becoming the paradigm of our time.

336 pages, Paperback

Published January 30, 2024