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.

Need help finding the right therapist?
Find Your Match

Meet the specialists

I worked as a Direct Support Professional (also known as a Direct Care Specialist) where I would provide in-home care for individuals with developmental disabilities. I have worked with individuals of all ages and abilities. Some examples include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, and Down Syndrome. I also have experience working with non-verbal individuals.

— Madeline Mansfield, Student Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
 

I was a part of a team at Riverside Community care, where I provided individual therapy for adult clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

— Katherine Stahl, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor

I have personal experience with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), having family members who face these issues, as well as being involved in this community. I have experience working with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum, Cerebral Palsy, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and more. Working with the families of individuals facing IDD to help manage the stress that may come with managing these disabilities, as well as anticipatory grief, and strategies for self-care.

— Sam Jamili, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in , CA
 

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, NC

The majority of my internship hours were completed by providing Applied Behavioral Analyses (ABA), through Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) to families and caregivers of those with special needs. I trained family members and caregivers on how to best provide support to shape challenging behaviors of their loved one with special needs. I worked with children and adults on the Autism spectrum, as well as a variety of other intellectual disabilities.

— Monique Mouchamel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Northridge,
 

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

Cognitive problem solving and crisis intervention group sessions and individually experience with IDD, MH and the elderly population, and those with possible previous addictions attributed to disorders. Participated actively in the clinical treatment planning for individuals under the direct guidance of Psychiatrist and Therapists (Behavioral).

— Tamika Woods, Mental Health Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
 

I have worked with adults with developmental/intellectual/cognitive disabilities as a job coach within a strengths-based, community integration framework.

— Megan Black, Occupational Therapist