The use of observation in parent-infant work when both parents have a diagnosis of mental illness

Abstract

This paper describes work with parents with mental illnesses and their baby. The family was referred to a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service by the health visitor who was concerned about issues of bonding. The family, already receiving much help from several agencies, agreed to a contract for a limited piece of work. The therapist's task was to share the observations and understanding of the four-month-old girl's mind and her unfolding relationship with her parents in the here-and-now of sessions. The parental disturbances inevitably were played out and were addressed in an alternating dialogue with both parents and infant. The splits, projections and countertransference aspects of working with these parents are highlighted.

Keywords:

• parent-infant psychotherapy
• bonding
• parental mental illness
• baby as a participant
• splitting
• projections and countertransference