Emotional intelligence is a critical skill set that enhances therapeutic relationships, fosters resilience, and improves patient outcomes. This practical book introduces the latest research and links it to health and social care practice, equipping readers with the tools needed to navigate the emotional complexities of care.

Health and social care practitioners frequently engage with individuals in distress, requiring them to interpret nonverbal cues, manage challenging behaviours, and respond with empathy. These abilities, all rooted in emotional intelligence, are essential for fostering meaningful therapeutic relationships and improving patient outcomes. Providing a blend of theory, research and real-world applications, this book introduces the concept of emotional intelligence and explores how it can support effective communication, clinical decision-making, crisis de-escalation, and trauma-informed care. With contributions from leading experts, it integrates evidence-based strategies, reflective exercises, and case studies to support the cultivation of self-awareness, empathy, and resilience.

Focusing on the role of emotional intelligence in both patient care and practitioner well-being, this book empowers readers to harness emotional intelligence as a transformative force in their practice and career growth. It is an essential resource for students and professionals across mental health, nursing, social work and allied health.