D. W. Winnicott is one of the best-known British psychoanalysts, but also attracts the interest of counsellors and therapists far beyond the strict psychoanalytic tradition in which he was trained. He coined many phrases that have entered the discourse of therapy: 'the good enough mother', 'the transitional object', 'the facilitating environment'. His unorthodox, controversial manner and sparkling style of writing have attracted enthusiastic, even uncritical, acclaim.

In this accessible book, Michael Jacobs summarizes Winnicott's life and explains his major theoretical concepts. He also rigorously evaluates his practice as a clinician, for example the holding and management of deeply regressed patients. While highlighting Winnicott's brilliance and creativity, Jacobs is not afraid to scrutinize his contributions more critically. He also discusses the criticisms others have made of Winnicott, notably within the psychoanalytic movement.

The final chapter assesses the influence of Winnicott's thinking on other countries as well as in Britain, particularly in research on the mother-baby relationship.