What do we mean by this word? To state the obvious it is about integrating - bringing and holding things together, the opposite of Dis-integration.

It is not the same as assimilating - making things similar; integrative practice recognises the difference between separate techniques and explanatory frameworks.

We describe Taking Responsibility for integration as one of the Core Features of AMBIT in this manual, but common sense dictates that no clinician actively opts to deliver Dis-integratedInterventions.

For the client

The primary concern is the quality of the relationship with the KeyWorker. Within the relative security of that relationship, decisions about which explanatory frameworks offer the best levers for change at the current time can be communicated in ways that are more likely to be heard, because of the Epistemic Trust that is stimulated.

In integrative practice this happens without others being dismissed (implicitly or explicitly, in the imagination or in reality) and without the authority of the KeyWorker being challenged by apparent contradictions between representatives of separate disciplines. The KeyWorker is able to hold on to the likelihood that alternative theoretical frameworks or techniques may yet offer significant benefits at later stages in the trajectory of the young person and their family.

The KeyWorker is equipped through AMBIT training and their access to SupervisoryStructures within the team to make choices about WhichInterventionWhen.

The overarching focus on developing Attachment security in the relationship between patient and KeyWorker facilitates activation of secure internal working models of relatedness in the patient, who can thus begin to explore creative responses to his or her dilemma, using this relationship as a Secure Base.