Therapeutic alliance plays a significant role in youth cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) by enhancing therapy participation and engagement. Alliance research has demonstrated a predictive effect of alliance on youth therapy outcomes across a range of diagnoses, with the strength of association varying by problem type and treatment setting. The tripartite model of alliance, emphasizing the emotional bond, collaborative goal setting, and task agreement, serves as a useful framework for understanding and fostering a strong alliance in youth CBT. In this chapter, we highlight key strategies for enhancing each of the three alliance-building components. Additionally, we discuss strategies for fostering a strong parent-provider alliance, given that parents play a key role in youth CBT. Employing the strategies discussed in this chapter fosters alliance-building, which in turn can enhance engagement, improve outcomes, and strengthen the overall effectiveness of youth CBT interventions.
