A Mindfulness-Based Approach to Working with High-Risk Adolescents

A Mindfulness-Based Approach to Working With High-Risk Adolescents is an accessible introduction to a new model of therapy that combines the Buddhist concept of mindfulness with modern trends in psychotherapy. Drawing on years of experience working with at-risk adolescents, the chapters explore ways to develop authentic connections with patients: building relationships, working with resistance, and ways to approach change using mindfulness-based techniques. Real-life interactions and illustrations are used to show how a mindfulness-oriented therapist can approach working with adolescents in individual and group settings, and the book also provides practical suggestions designed for immediate implementation. A Mindfulness-Based Approach to Working With High-Risk Adolescents is a must for any mental health professional interested in using mindfulness and other contemplative practices with at-risk youth.

Sam Himelstein, PhD, is associate core faculty at Sofia University, where he teaches graduate courses in research methodology and incorporating mindfulness into psychotherapy. He is also director of clinical services and research at the Mind Body Awareness Project, where he initiates research projects regarding mindfulness and adolescents with other academic professionals. He is a licensed psychologist who works with high-risk adolescents in individual, group, and family therapy. In addition, Himelstein is the executive director of Engaging the Moment, a continuing-education business that trains clinicians in how to approach adolescents with mindfulness and other contemplative practices.