Exploring how to deliver videoconference-mediated psychological therapy to adults with an intellectual disability during the coronavirus pandemic
Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities
ISSN: 2044-1282
Article publication date: 22 January 2021
Issue publication date: 16 February 2021
Abstract
Purpose
The novel coronavirus and associated restrictions have resulted in mental health services across the UK having to adapt how they deliver psychological assessments and interventions. The purpose of this paper is to explore the accessibility and prospective acceptability of providing telephone and videoconference-mediated psychological interventions in individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Design/methodology/approach
As part of a service evaluation, a mixed-methods questionnaire was developed and completed by clients who had been referred for psychological therapy at an adult intellectual disabilities’ community health service in the north of England. All clients were assessed using the Red/Amber/Green (RAG) system by a consultant clinical psychologist for risk and potential suitability for indirect service delivery given their ability and needs.
Findings
Overall, 22 clients were invited to take part, of which, only seven (32%) were accepting of telephone or videoconference-mediated psychological therapy. Most of the clients were unable to engage in video-conference therapy and therefore, only suitable for phone therapy. This paper presents the remaining findings and discusses the clinical implications and unique considerations for intellectual disability services drawing on the existing literature.
Originality/value
This is the first paper that the authors are aware of, examining videoconference-mediated psychological therapy in this population. It is hoped the data will be used to help inform practice or policy when using such therapeutic approaches in adults with an intellectual disability.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank those clients who have taken part for their involvement and for allowing the authors to learn from their experiences.Funding: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.Conflict of Interests: No conflict of interest to report.
Citation
Rawlings, G.H., Gaskell, C., Rolling, K. and Beail, N. (2021), "Exploring how to deliver videoconference-mediated psychological therapy to adults with an intellectual disability during the coronavirus pandemic", Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 20-32. https://doi.org/10.1108/AMHID-06-2020-0014
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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