Citation

Newlands RT, Benuto LT. Clin. Case Stud. 2021; 20(3): 233-247.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1534650120981766

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Women with intellectual disabilities are at a greater risk of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization. While there is a dearth of research dedicated to the treatment of this population experts recommend behavioral based treatments. We present the case of a 37-year-old woman with low cognitive functioning who presented for treatment for depression and PTSD in relation to IPV victimization. An adapted version of the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed treatment for victims of IPV was used to successfully treat the client. Several factors were considered in the development and delivery of the treatment, relevant to the client's cognitive deficits and clinical complexity. This study suggests that (1) a modified DBT informed treatment can be successfully implemented with this population; (2) providing individual treatment with additional time to review skills is beneficial; (3) handouts and homework should be modified to increase understanding and retention; and (4) issues of self-esteem and validation should be addressed every session. © The Author(s) 2020.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; cognition; female; case report; decision making; child abuse; psychotherapy; depression; social support; anxiety; psychosis; mindfulness; loneliness; behavior change; suicide attempt; qualitative research; posttraumatic stress disorder; case study; risk factor; psychoeducation; alcohol consumption; mental disease; victim; clinical article; cognitive defect; behavior therapy; social psychology; middle aged; emotion; coping behavior; methamphetamine; learning disorder; follow up; social phobia; self esteem; emotional stress; frustration; dialectical behavior therapy; skill; emotionality; Beck Depression Inventory; Beck Anxiety Inventory; partner violence; intellectual impairment; task performance; Article; muscle relaxation; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; mini international neuropsychiatric interview; DSM-5; emotional abuse; skin conductance; physical violence; cognitive behavioral therapy; intellectual disabilities; intimate partner violence victimization; treatment modification