Room for Thought: A Developmental Perspective

ABSTRACT

This article discusses ways in which a developmental point of view enriches and informs our work. It focuses on the development of reflective functioning; specifically, how we, as therapists, make room for this kind of thinking with both our child and adult patients. This focus includes a description of the complex relationship between the development of self/object differentiation and the reflective function. In addition, the role of therapy in the facilitation of this development in the work with adults is illustrated using the therapist’s description of her own experience as a therapist. Finally, the article addresses the importance, in child therapy, of working with the child/parent dynamics as a crucial component of the therapist’s intervention.