Mentalization-based therapy (MBT) is a psychotherapy that focuses on thinking about thinking. It is an evidence based treatment for personality disorder. MBT helps us to mentalize which is essential to improve mental health and social function. We adopt a curious stance to wonder and explore difficulties.
Mentalization is the ability to understand our own actions and those of others in terms of thoughts, feelings, wishes and desires. It can help improve misunderstandings by developing our ability to appreciate mind states that led to misapprehension which in turn reduces interpersonal difficulties and improves emotional regulation.
The knowledge and skills of mentalizing is passed on to the next generation. It is a transactional and intergenerational social process.
