‘Going cognitive’: CBT for people with learning disabilities
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‘Going cognitive’: CBT for people with learning disabilities

Rob Mirow Student of CBT, Salford College, Psychotherapist with the community learning disability team, Trafford PCT

Cognitive behavioural therapy is now considered to be a fashionable, effective, research-based choice of therapy for many people. But, asks Rob Mirow, is CBT adaptable or available to meet the psychological needs of people with learning disabilities?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is fast becoming the therapy of choice for many people suffering from psychological problems. Within the market economy of health, CBT is considered a short-term, structured, problem-focused therapy that is backed by research and which can be evaluated. As a consequence it is attractive to those who fund services. CBT is considered to be as effective as antidepressants and similar medications in treating a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, problem-solving and anger management (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence 2004, 2007).

Learning Disability Practice. 11, 8, 34-38. doi: 10.7748/ldp2008.10.11.8.34.c6791

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