ABSTRACT
This paper explores the experience of an online infant observation. The building blocks of infant observations are discussed as well as how they are impacted upon when setting out online, and then moving to face-to-face. The writer considers what can be learnt, including whether modifications might be necessary and if so which. The paper describes the paradoxical and contradictory experiences of the remote contact and investigates the transition to in-person observation. There is some reflection on the possibility of psychic three-dimensionality.
Acknowledgements
I owe thanks to Cindi and her family and Fotini Roberts my seminar leader who supported this work. Thank you also to Gianna Williams who supported and encouraged me and Milly Jenkins for her invaluable editing.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Valerie Curen
Valerie Curen is a senior child and adolescent psychotherapist, registered with the Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP), a parent–infant psychotherapist and an adult psychotherapist registered with the UKCP. She has worked for 25 years in the NHS and the voluntary sector with children, adolescents, and parents/carers with complex presentations. Valerie has taught at the Institute of Psychiatry, the Centre for Psychoanalytic Studies at Essex University, the AFNCCF and GOSH. Currently, Valerie is the lead parent infant psychotherapist for the CNWL perinatal community teams.