Mentalization-Based Treatment with Families

This book provides practical therapeutic strategies and in-depth case illustrations to help parents, children, and adolescents overcome blocks in their relationships by gaining a deeper understanding of each other's experiences and points of view. It draws on the mentalization-based treatment (MBT) model and interweaves it with systemic concepts and interventions, including guidance for setting up sessions and engaging clients, addressing emotional and behavioral difficulties, and implementing playful activities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2021
Publisher: Guilford Publications

This groundbreaking book delves into the realm of clinical practice with families, offering a fresh perspective through the lens of mentalizing. It is brimming with practical therapeutic strategies and comprehensive case illustrations, providing valuable insights for professionals working with families. The expert authors, renowned for their expertise, dedicate their efforts to aiding parents, children, and adolescents in overcoming barriers in their interpersonal relationships by fostering a deeper understanding and openness to each other's experiences and perspectives. The volume seamlessly integrates the mentalization-based treatment (MBT) model with systemic concepts and interventions, offering a comprehensive approach to family therapy. It provides guidance on conducting sessions, addressing emotional and behavioral challenges that often lead families to seek treatment, and incorporating playful activities, exercises, and games to empower family members to transform problematic relationship patterns.

The book begins by introducing the mentalizing framework, which emphasizes the importance of understanding and interpreting the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors of individuals within the context of their relationships. It highlights the significance of recognizing and addressing early maladaptive patterns of thinking and behaving that can contribute to family conflicts and difficulties.

In the subsequent chapters, the authors delve into various aspects of clinical practice with families. They explore the role of parents in promoting mentalization within their children and adolescents, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters emotional development. They also discuss the challenges faced by families dealing with trauma, substance abuse, and mental health issues, providing practical strategies for addressing these complex problems.

Throughout the book, numerous case illustrations are provided to illustrate the application of the therapeutic strategies discussed. These cases showcase the diverse experiences and challenges faced by families, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of family dynamics and the potential for positive change.

One of the key strengths of this book is its emphasis on the collaborative nature of family therapy. The authors recognize that families are systems, and thus, interventions must consider the broader context in which the family operates. They encourage therapists to work collaboratively with family members, fostering a sense of trust and respect and promoting open communication.

Furthermore, the book provides practical guidance on setting up sessions and engaging clients effectively. It outlines strategies for building rapport, addressing resistance, and facilitating meaningful change within families. The authors also offer insights into working with diverse families, including those from different cultural backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities, and families with special needs.

In conclusion, this innovative book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies for clinical practice with families. By examining families through a mentalizing lens, the authors provide a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to family therapy. Whether you are a seasoned therapist or a newcomer to the field, this book will be an invaluable resource for enhancing your skills and achieving positive outcomes with families.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781462546053