Jasmine was identified at the age of seven months at her childcare center as demonstrating severe developmental lags and was referred to Austin Child Guidance Center's mental health specialist. Jasmine could neither sit unsupported nor was she interested in exploring or any type of finger play.She did not demonstrate a full range of affect and her body language was consistently stiff and unresponsive to gentle touch. In addition, several childcare workers complained about her poor hygiene. Jasmine lives with her mother who is a 17-year old high school student, her father who works outside of the home every day and late into the evening, and her older sibling who is a toddler. The family does not have an outside support system.
After developing initial rapport, the mental health specialist's first line of treatment was mainly psychoeducational with Jasmine's mother.She was unfamiliar with the concept of developmental milestones and had believed that holding her child would spoil her. She was very open to working with the consultant so together they engaged in some attachment work.They spent time doing individual therapy for the mother addressing her underlying depression symptoms, childhood and current family issues, and overall home functioning.
Jasmine is now over ten months old and she has made significant progress. She is beginning to crawl and is making consistent sounds.She sometimes squeals in delight in her mother's presence and her hygiene has improved. Her mother is spending time playing developmentally appropriate games with her and is no longer afraid to show physical affection to her child. Jasmine's body language is reflective of this, as she is much less stiff in general. Jasmine's mother is gaining confidence in her parenting abilities and this has had a positive effect on her marriage.
The family was also referred to the Early Childhood HeadStart home visitation program in order to provide helpful developmental home services for Jasmine's mom. The mental health consultant continues to be a resource for the family and may begin couples therapy sessions with Jasmine's parents in addition to the family work.
