Intellectual Disability and Mental Health

Overview

Based on decades of experience treating individuals who live with both intellectual disabilities and psychiatric disorders, this handbook clarifies the extremely complex nature of working with dual diagnosis. In-depth information about the diagnostic process, hands-on treatment considerations, and the elements of proper staff training are featured, and complicating factors in identifying appropriate psychiatric diagnoses are addressed. Exploring the problematic underreporting of psychiatric symptoms and disorders, this guide is ideal for a variety of contexts, offering innovative approaches to treatment and intervention strategies that can be immediately implemented. Additional topics covered include medical contributors to psychiatric conditions, positive behavioral supports, and transitional planning.

Author Biography

Sharon McGilvery, PhD, is a consulting psychologist with the San Diego Regional Center and a consultant for the Assessment and Intervention Services Program for Toward Maximum Independence, Inc. She has more than 30 years experience in working with individuals with intellectual disabilities in a variety of clinical and residential settings. She lives in San Diego. Darlene Sweetland, PhD, is the psychologist and behavioral consultant for the Solutions Building Community Collaborative, whose mission is to support those with dual diagnosis. She has more than 15 years of experience in the dual diagnosis community and regularly conducts training sessions on working in the field. She maintains a private practice where she specializes in the assessment and treatment of individuals struggling with issues such as learning and developmental disorders. She lives in Del Mar, California.