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Traces of the Infantile in Psychoanalytic Therapy with Adults

Author(s) : Bjorn Salomonsson

Reviews and Endorsements

What do psychoanalysis and astronomy have in common? As surprising as this question may seem, after reading this book every reader will recognize the fascinating equation: both sciences deal with the traces of events that occurred long ago but are effective in the present. Björn Salomonsson not only reminds us of the light shining from afar in the starry sky, but also uses sensitive empathy combined with conceptual diversity to highlight the traces and radiations of the Infantile in the lives of adults. At the same time, he emphasises a crucial difference, because in psychoanalysis, the subjectivity of the analyst and their connection to their own Infantile are of central importance to grasp the Infantile of patients. On the basis of distinct conceptual knowledge and his expertise in parent-infant psychotherapy, Salomonsson formulates the Infantile as a concept: as a source of emotional vitality, but also as a backdrop for later mental conflicts. The clinical examples are full of Salomonsson’s clinical-analytical competence in dealing with the Infantile in its various forms. A deeply thoughtful, clinically stimulating and wise book at the same time.
Heribert Blass, Dr. med. resident elect of the International Psychoanalytical Association

Page after page, with sure expertise and descriptive mastery, in this fascinating book Bjorn Salomonsson builds a bridge between two territories that the individual psyche, culture, and sometimes even science, often risk separating in an unrealistic and defensive way: the area of the Infantile and that of the adult mind.
Thanks to its clear and effectively integrative style, Traces of the Infantile is an invaluable working tool for connecting theory to clinical practice, but also for encouraging each reader to make intimate contact with their own inner infantile Self, in a humanising process of reconnecting with their deepest experiences.
Stefano Bolognini, Past President of the International Psychoanalytical Association

Drawing on his extensive experience in Parent-Infant Psychotherapy, Salomonsson offers new insights into how early relationships influence who we become as adults. He uses the interesting analogy of an astronomer exploring the infinite night sky and the analyst examining the mind's earliest workings, thereby elucidating complex processes and making them more accessible. The session transcripts that are provided illustrate how links to infancy can be made with sensitivity and empathy. The author engages in critical self-reflection, an example of best practice when working in this field. Also included is the latest research and the historical background to many of our theories, making this a valuable and essential addition to the existing psychoanalytic literature.
Astrid Berg, Cape Town, President of the World Association for Infant Mental Health