Attitudes of therapists towards people with learning disabilities

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionLearning disabilities (LDs) can be an invisible condition, and therapists may come across clients that remain undiagnosed. Unless therapists are equipped to work with this client group, the therapeutic process could lead to damaging results.AimThis study investigates attitudes of private therapists towards working with clients with LDs in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. The overall aim was to raise awareness on the issue.MethodologyPrimary research was conducted applying the Q‐Methodology. Existing views were gathered from the literature and were used to study the range of subjective views on the topic. POETQ, an online application, enabled 23 private therapists across the United Kingdom to participate in the study. Data were analysed electronically using a computer application, specifically designed for the Q‐Method.ResultsFour Q‐factors were defined that reflect the current attitudes amongst therapists: Factor 1: Therapists are responsible for the effectiveness of their service; Factor 2: LDs are a type of diversity; Factor 3: Lack of knowledge impacts on level of confidence and Factor 4: There is a need for therapists to undertake relevant training.ConclusionsThese results show that participants in this study belong to a population that holds positive attitudes towards people with LDs and believe that a therapeutic relationship can be established with such clients. However, the nonresponse bias can potentially indicate that the majority of the population is unwilling to engage with clients with LDs. This study suggests that training, professional experience and direct personal contact and familiarity with LDs contribute towards positive attitudes. A further investigation of the factors that influence attitudes of therapists, could contribute towards improving the quality of psychotherapeutic services available to people with LDs.