Ending Child Psychotherapy: Continuing the Cycle of Life

Focuses on the termination of psychoanalytic treatment with young children, taking into account the relationship to the parents and its impact on the conduct of treatment, especially at the sensitive ending phase. The author reflects on D. W. Winnicott's (1977) case, "The Piggle," from this perspective. The verbatim notes and comments offer a classic, detailed example of the complex factors impinging upon the conclusion of treating a young child and the wisdom of an outstanding therapist. A 2nd case of a 7-yr-old girl who came to treatment because of a reaction of delayed mourning is also reviewed. The case illustrates the issues involved in the early traumatic loss of a parent, how this loss is reflected within the transference relationship, and the subsequent unfolding of treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)