Intellectual Disability
Intellectual disability is defined by below-average intelligence or mental ability and a lack of skills necessary for day-to-day living. A child diagnosed with an intellectual disability can learn new skills, but they typically learn them more slowly. There are varying degrees of intellectual disability, from mild to profound. While there are many interventions for those with an intellectual disability, mostly focused on educations and life skills, mental health is sometimes overlooked. Research shows individuals who have an intellectual disability have a higher risk of mental health concerns, including depression and suicidal ideation. If you, a child in your care, or a family member has been diagnosed with an intellectual disability and is experiencing mental health issues, reach out to one of TherapyDen’s experts today.
Find Your Match
Meet the specialists
With over 20+ years in the field of special education and working with individuals throughout the lifespan, I am trained and familiar with the the challenges of speech delays, sensory sensitivities that can impact social-emotional experiences. Yet, I believe individuals with intellectual challenges also experience feeling of overwhelmed, relationship challenges, and anxiety. I have worked with a number of individuals diagnosed with Down Syndrome who have learned calming strategies.
— Jennifer Green, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Pleasanton, CA
Outside of my career as a mental health counselor, I have worked in Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) Programs for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ID/DD) for over 6 years. Making sessions accessible for neurodiverse populations is a passion of mine, and inclusion has been a core value for me throughout my lifetime as a sibling of an individual with a disability. I have experience working with individuals with diagnoses such as Down Syndrome, Autism, and ID.
— Claire Hebert, Licensed Professional Counselor in , AL
I have a minor in special education and I have worked with this population in various capacities for a decade. There is a large gap between mental health services and I/DD services that I hope to bridge. I’ve seen people with I/DD who could use someone who is there purely for support and to help them to love themselves more. I’ve seen more than a few parents and caregivers who could use that same support.
— Haley Britton, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Asheville, NCAs a Marriage and Family Therapist student intern specializing in intellectual disabilities, I have over five years of experience working with families of children with autism and Down syndrome. My expertise lies in supporting both the individuals with these conditions and their families, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face. I aim to offer empathetic, practical support that strengthens family dynamics and promotes overall well-being.
— Darby Sams, Student Therapist
I have worked as a music therapist with both children and adults who have varying intellectual and developmental disabilities. Music-based experiences provide alternate means of engagement and expression beyond the verbal or written realm. I practice from the mindset that every person deserves the right to have accessible means of understanding themselves and connecting with others and that it does not need to look the same for everyone.
— Emily Sevcik, Licensed Professional Clinical CounselorI have worked with adults with developmental/intellectual/cognitive disabilities as a job coach within a strengths-based, community integration framework.
— Megan Black, Occupational Therapist