Direct work with children in time-limited MBT-C.

Abstract

in this chapter, we describe the main features of the direct work with children in mentalization-based treatment for children (MBt-C), including some of the techniques that can be used in sessions with a child. As we hope we have made clear throughout this book, techniques in themselves are only a means to an end, not an end in themselves. their effectiveness depends on the quality of the therapeutic relationship that has been formed; the capacity to use the techniques in a lively and appropriate way, sensitivity to the "emotional temperature" in the room, and the child's level of functioning. in Chapter 4, we described the therapist's mentalizing stance and the role it plays as in all MBt work. this is the foundation on which the rest of the work can be built.in this chapter, we begin by discussing the central role of play in timelimited MBt-C, before going on to describe a variety of techniques the therapist may use to assist the overall aims of the therapeutic work. All of the