Clinical psychologists’ experiences of delivering trauma-focused therapy with individuals with intellectual disabilities

Stewart, Georgia (2022). Clinical psychologists’ experiences of delivering trauma-focused therapy with individuals with intellectual disabilities. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Background: Individuals with intellectual disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing psychological trauma compared to the general population. Over the past decade, the availability and application of evidence-based models of trauma-therapy has increased. The delivery of such models is acknowledged to be a complex and demanding process for the therapist; however, currently little is known about the experience of therapists delivering these interventions. The current study therefore aimed to explore the lived experiences of Clinical Psychologists delivering trauma-focused therapies with individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Method: Six Clinical Psychologists were interviewed regarding their experiences of delivering trauma-focused therapies with people with intellectual disabilities. Interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results: Four superordinate themes were identified through the analysis: ‘Therapists’ confidence’, ‘Systemic challenges’, ‘Managing the emotional impact’, and ‘Accessible support’. Themes illustrated the challenges that Psychologists experience when delivering trauma-focused therapies and the emotional impact of these. A changing emotional impact was noted over time, with Psychologists adopting different approaches to managing emotional involvement. The importance of accessible external support was emphasised; however, difficulties in accessing this were highlighted.

Conclusion: The results of this study draw attention to the challenges Psychologists face in delivering trauma-focused therapies with individuals with intellectual disabilities. These findings prompt further consideration of how trauma-focused therapies fit within a wider context of clients’ unmet social needs and inaccessible support for Psychologists.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):