A case report outlining clinical work with a mother with acquired brain injury and her infant son

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Clinical infant mental health interventions with brain-injured mothers and fathers and their infants is scarcely described in the literature. Further elaboration of this work is required and this paper seeks to add to that literature. Method This is a single case report describing home-visiting clinical work with a mother with an acquired brain injury focussing on her relationship with her infant over more than 2 years. A range of interventions including family support, developmental guidance, video-replay and holding a reflective stance were delivered throughout the 2-year period. Results The mother reported that her relationship with her son improved though sometimes strong feelings of ambivalence towards her son remained. Discussion Participation in psychological therapy resulted in the mother experiencing significant emotional fatigue. Clinicians should be aware of this possible emotional toll on the person with a brain injury. The relative contributions of the parent’s social and emotional experience prior to the acquired brain injury, the effects on the functioning of that injury and the interplay between these factors should be considered. Interventions should be informed by each family’s individual needs, begin early in life and a mix of behavioural and psychological interventions may be desirable. The experience of a very young child must also be held in mind.