ABSTRACT
This chapter explores clinical work with two children Nancy and Tommy with early experiences of deprivation, and using concepts developed by Wilfred Bion, follows a similar tradition. It explores a particular sort of clinical experience. The ideas arise from experiences with child patients where there have been moments of hope experienced by the child. In the context of psychotherapy with a 6-year-old boy, Tommy, who had suffered neglect, loss, and a specific trauma that resulted in extensive burn injuries, there were moments when he experienced in a new way, and that this came to him unexpectedly and surprised. Tommy seemed to be getting interested in the link between an inside and an outside. The psychotherapy was dominated by projective processes and negative transference. What is striking about Nancy is her alertness to the possibilities for emotional linking. The impression is that she has a strong innate preconception of a good link.
