The Application of CBT for Adults with Learning Disabilities

Abstract

The chapter provides an evidence-based overview of predominantly cognitive behavioural interventions for common mental disorders, e.g. anxiety and depression, undertaken in the field of intellectual disabilities (ID). The evidence was generated by reviewing international publications between 1980 - 2020 which identified the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), including third wave CBT therapies and also informed from our extensive clinical practice in the field of ID. The first section provides an outline of the historical and sociological context of psychological therapies and the possible barriers to CBT in an ID population. The chapter includes a summary of how intellectual disabilities, depression and anxiety disorders are defined. It considers key issues, problems and solutions, associated with applying CBT and its associated approaches in an ID population. Finally, two case vignettes introduce the reader to CBT techniques to illustrate ideas that will help clients using CBT to bring about a reduction in self-defeating behaviours. With the aid of a support worker and electronic sources, there is a much broader range of resources to help client and therapist journey and support the therapeutic alliance.