Page 102 - Post-traumatic stress disorder in adults with mild intellectual disability: Screening, assessment, and brief intensive EMDR therapy

Chapter 5
Abstract
Background: This study explored the experiences of individuals with mild
intellectual disability (MID: IQ 50-70) or borderline intellectual functioning
(BIF: IQ 70-85), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and severe
behavioural problems, with brief Intensive EMDR therapy delivered by a
team of rotating therapists.
Purpose: Preliminary research indicates that Intensive EMDR therapy with
a team of rotating therapists is effective in treating PTSD in individuals with
MID-BIF. To optimise treatment outcomes, it is important to understand
how they experience this treatment format.
Methods: In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with three
adults with MID-BIF and severe behavioural problems, before and after
therapy. Interviews with three professional caregivers (before and after
therapy), three EMDR therapists (after therapy), and field notes were used
to contextualise the experiences of the participants.
Results: Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) revealed that
participants started Intensive EMDR therapy with rotating therapists holding
high expectations. One participant discontinued early, two completed
treatment, and all reported positive experiences with both the intensive
format and therapist rotation model. The intensity was seen to support
continuity and engagement, particularly compared to weekly therapy
sessions. Minimal involvement of the (professional) support systems was
also observed.
Conclusions: Participants with MID-BIF and severe behavioural problems
generally reported positive experiences with brief Intensive EMDR therapy
delivered by a team of rotating therapists.
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