The expansiveness of relational self psychology is described first in terms of its origins in Kohut’s self psychology. Then the alterations in Kohut’s original formulations are articulated with their clinical relevance explained. Further, relational self psychology’s expansion to include relationality is discussed. Finally, the theory’s capacity to encompass other related perspectives is illustrated by the use made of brain researcher Gerald Edelman’s theory of brain and the development of consciousness. A case of trauma is presented to illustrate how relational self psychology with its incorporation of Edelman’s formulations becomes the theory that is used to work successfully with a sexually and physically abused young man suffering from dissociation and attendant psychological difficulties.