Experiences of Virtual CBT in Adults with Learning Disabilities

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Exploring Experiences of Virtual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in Adults with a Learning Disability during the Coronavirus-19 Pandemic

• IRAS ID

  312471

• Contact name

  Holly Burton

• Contact email

  holly.burton@mpft.nhs.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Staffordshire University

• Duration of Study in the UK

  1 years, 0 months, 21 days

• Research summary

  Research Summary:
  The main objective of this research is to explore experiences of virtual (e.g. via telephone or online video communication software) cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for a mental health difficulty in adults with a learning disability (LD). Specifically, this research aims to explore any potential strengths and pitfalls of virtual CBT from the perspective of service users, and increase the understanding of how delivering interventions in this way can be effective for adults with a LD across NHS services.

  Service users with a diagnosed LD that have received a minimum of 8 sessions of CBT for a mental health difficulty from either Improving Access to Psychology Therapies (IAPT) or the Community Learning Disabilities Team (CLDT) will be eligible to participate in this study.

  A semi-structured interview (approx. 1 hour) will be conducted with participants via online communication software (e.g. Microsoft Teams) or face to face if permitted locally/nationally. Participants will be given easy read versions of the information sheet and interview schedule if they wish. Interview transcripts will be analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

  LAY SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
  This paper highlights the importance of psychological safety for PWID when receiving virtual support, with lack of safety impacting the quality of therapeutic relationship and engagement in intervention. The unique challenges faced by PWID, such as reliance on non-verbal communication and confidentiality in residential environments, must be addressed when navigating virtual approaches post-pandemic. Future research exploring the development of therapeutic alliance when working virtually is recommended.

• REC name

  West Midlands - Coventry & Warwickshire Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  22/WM/0103

• Date of REC Opinion

  15 Jun 2022

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion