Psychological therapies for psychiatric disorders
Tailored psychological interventions for identified psychiatric disorders can be used for people with developmental disability. The evidence base for psychological interventions in this population is small, but expanding. Therapies may help to address the loss, exclusion and fragmented supports often experienced by this group.
Psychotherapy may need to be modified to accommodate communication needs and cognitive ability, and to involve carers and support people. People with significant cognitive difficulties or difficulty communicating using spoken language may still benefit from some therapies; this will depend on factors including the type of therapy, practitioner expertise and use of or access to communication supports.
Psychotherapies for people with developmental disability can be conducted with individuals or in groups. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or Medicare (eg Mental Health Treatment Plan) funding may apply. Psychological therapies that may be used for people with developmental disability are outlined in Use of psychological therapies for people with developmental disability.
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Psychological therapy |
Psychiatric disorders and other indications |
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cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)—aims to change patterns of problematic thoughts, emotions and behaviours by challenging automatic cognitions and setting behavioural goals |
anger management, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders and trauma |
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supportive psychotherapies—include empathic listening, validation, education, problem solving, encouragement and (when appropriate) reassurance, with an emphasis on practical activities [NB1] |
depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, situational crises |
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social skills training—aims to improve social skills and enable participation |
autism spectrum disorder |
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dialectical behaviour therapy—combines aspects of CBT with mindfulness techniques and distress tolerance |
personality disorders |
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family systems therapy—aims to resolve problems related to interaction between elements of the person’s support system |
may be useful for children and adolescents with developmental disability who live within families, consider for mood and behavioural disturbances, attachment issues |
Note: NB1: The Books Beyond Words series can be a useful resource during supportive psychotherapy—see website.
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