This paper looks at the relevance of key Kleinian theory when working in an attachment-based relational manner. The key concepts are described briefly and then applied to clinical work. The writer posits that Kleinian theory is helpful in working with the negative transference, and that Kleinan theory can be applied in a relational manner in a clinical setting. Two clinical vignettes are offered to explore this idea, one with an individual client and one with a couple. The writer invites the reader to think about the ideas, rather than seeking to present an argument to convince.