Jon G. Allen, PhD is a prominent clinical psychologist known for his expertise in trauma, psychotherapy, and attachment theory. He emphasizes the central role of mentalizing in building effective therapeutic relationships, particularly for individuals struggling with attachment-related trauma.
Mentalizing refers to the capacity to understand behavior in relation to mental states, both one's own and those of others, a crucial skill for healthy relationships and self-awareness. His work has made mentalization-based concepts accessible to a wide audience, influencing clinical practice and research around the world. 
Dr. Allen is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Baylor College of Medicine and Senior Staff Psychologist at the Menninger Clinic. He is the author of several books including: Mentalizing in Clinical Practice, Restoring Mentalizing, Borderline Personality Disorder: Tailoring the Therapy to the Patient, Coping with Trauma: Hope through Understanding, and Coping with Depression: From Catch-22 to Hope.