The basis of any interaction with a young person is to facilitate emotional recovery requiring an initial case formulation and then scaffolding the young person by ensuring they are supported. This entails delivering pre-therapy in order to build rapport and trust.It also requires a reflection on the wider role of the external family, looking at how they can be drawn upon to provide ongoing support in generating the secure base.

By building on the positive aspects of the family, the focus is on working through the various challenges in order to enhance recovery. It means engaging with the family within the therapeutic space which also means looking at the impact of those who are ‘absent’ as well as those who are present.

The aim is to work with young people to engage in 1-1 work and this also means reflecting on masculinities and the formation of boys identities whilst also reflecting on women’s identities within the therapeutic work.