The experiences of therapists providing psychological treatment for adults with depression and intellectual disabilities as part of a randomised controlled trial

Smith, IC, Huws, JC, Appleton, K, Cooper, SA, Dagnan, D, Hastings, RP, Hatton, C ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8781-8486, Jones, RSP, Melville, C, Scott, K, Williams, C and Jahoda, A (2021) The experiences of therapists providing psychological treatment for adults with depression and intellectual disabilities as part of a randomised controlled trial. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 34 (6). pp. 1442-1451. ISSN 1360-2322

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Abstract

Background: Health professionals were trained to deliver adapted psychological interventions for depression to people with learning disabilities and depression alongside a supporter. Exploring the delivery of psychological interventions can help increase access to therapy. Method: Twenty-seven participants took part in six focus groups, and the data were subject to a Framework Analysis. Results: The structure and focus of the manualised therapies, and the use of specific techniques were perceived as key to service-user engagement. Supporters' involvement was valued by therapists if they had a good relationship and regular contact with the individual they supported. Regular clinical supervision was regarded as vital in understanding their role, assessing progress and delivering the interventions. Conclusions: The findings highlight that health professionals can embrace a focussed therapeutic role and increase access to psychological therapies for people with intellectual disabilities.