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.

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Meet the specialists

I've spent the last seven years specializing in working with, understandings, and enacting policy with this populaitons. I've also trained thousands on how to best work with this populaiton. All while still seeing people individually.

— Kayena Pierre-Louis, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 

I have extensive experience working with both youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. I have enjoyed working with this population professionally, both during my counseling career and prior to. I have worked in group homes, as a caregiver and case manager, in homeless shelters, and in a clinical community mental health setting with individuals in this population.

— Felicia Keeton-Howard, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA

I have worked with people with intellectual disabilities for 20 years. I love helping people with disabilities discover more about themselves and gain more independence.

— Michelle Stroebel, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Granite Falls, NC
 

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

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