• To familiarise yourself with the principles underpinning cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• To identify the role of CBT in treating psychological disorders experienced by people with intellectual disabilities
• To understand the challenges of delivering CBT for people with intellectual disabilities
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has become established as a method for treating psychological disorders experienced by the general population, with considerable evidence available to support its efficacy. However, little research has been conducted into its effectiveness in treating psychological disorders experienced by people with intellectual disabilities.
This article explores the various factors involved in the use of CBT for people with intellectual disabilities and how healthcare professionals and the multidisciplinary team have an important role in the CBT process. The input of learning disability nurses is also explored, particularly their vital role in supporting CBT and providing information that is concurrent with an individual’s level of understanding.
Challenges in the provision of CBT for this population are also examined, for example the prevalence of diagnostic overshadowing, which can make it difficult to distinguish between cognitive impairment and mental health issues in people with intellectual disabilities.
Learning Disability Practice. doi: 10.7748/ldp.2020.e2013
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and has been checked for plagiarism using automated software
Correspondencem.henderson-laidlaw@napier.ac.uk
Conflict of interestNone declared
Henderson-Laidlaw M, Hall S (2020) Using cognitive behavioural therapy in individuals with intellectual disability. Learning Disability Practice. doi: 10.7748/ldp.2020.e2013
Accepted 20 September 2019
Published online: 05 March 2020
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