Mentalization-Based Treatment for Adolescents: The Framework for Work with Suicide and Self-Injurious Behaviors

Abstract

Mentalization-based therapy for adolescents is an evidenced-based treatment for adolescents with suicidal and self-injurious behaviours. This chapter focuses on the important elements of the mentalizing framework needed to effectively utilize mentalizing theory and skills in psychotherapy with adolescents and their families. These elements include the mentalizing assessment—the development of a mentalizing formulation that is co-constructed with the adolescent, the family and mental health team and co-construction of a mentalizing safety plan. Finally, a review of the overall structure and anticipated time-frame necessary to decrease the symptoms of suicidal and self-injurious thoughts and behaviours through the improving mentalizing in the adolescent and their family is provided thereby increasing social cohesion, competence and connection.