509 For many inner-city African American youths today the issues of integrity and respect are so intense they'd rather die?or kill?than sacrifice their self-esteem. This workshop will present a unique approach to working with African American youngsters based on an understanding of their culture and the therapeutic imperative of restoring and supporting their dignity. In this approach, rather than challenging or confronting, the therapist's work focuses on affirming and recognizing their teenage clients' "badges of ability." The presenter will show video examples of this work, offer techniques for handling the therapist's own anxiety about working with tough kids, and explore the skillful use of the self of the therapist in this work. We'll also discuss the special cross-racial issues involved when white therapists use this approach.