ABSTRACT
“Janet” was a learning-disabled little girl whom I saw in once-weekly psychotherapy for a little more than a year. She was referred to the Clinic by social services, who requested an assessment for psychotherapy and help in planning for her future. At that time she was 7 years old and had been in care since the age of 3. The referrer described her as a loveable little girl who displayed indiscriminate affection but could become difficult to control and aggressive when she did not have the full attention of an adult or when she had to cope with minor frustrations. Janet had a severe learning disability and was only able to use a few words. At the time of referral she was placed in a school for children with moderate learning difficulties, but social services were concerned about the suitability of this placement for her needs.
