Working Relationally with Young People brings together a diverse range of contributors to explore the theory, practice and potential of working relationally with troubled young people to effect meaningful change in mental health contexts and beyond.

This book explores the growing interest in and demand for a relational model of mental health support based on Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) for young people, parents, families and communities. Relational approaches place an emphasis on authentic and mutual connections – in these helping relationships, the therapist is not an aloof ‘expert’, but an engaged human being who is an active partner in 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 CAT and a 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.