The UCEDD at Oregon Health & Science University’s Institute on Development and Disability has created a two-part online training to support mental health professionals as they learn to offer quality care for clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and co-occurring mental health diagnosis. The trainings feature experiences of people with IDD who have used mental health care services, and of mental health care providers who have worked with people with IDD in therapy.
The new training series, developed in collaboration with the Oregon Office on Disability and Health (OODH) and funded by the WITH Foundation, is based on a previously offered live webinar. It has been updated and expanded into a two-part virtual, on-demand training that is available to all through Compass, OHSU's Learning and Performance Management System. CME credit is available for both Course 1 and Course 2 in the series.
Course 1: Improving Mental Health Care for Clients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Part 1 of the series prepares mental health professionals to provide accessible care to clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health diagnosis. Topics include:
- Recognizing the unique needs of the disability population in mental health care
- Challenging personal biases and assumptions to provide more inclusive care
- Identifying and addressing systemic barriers that impact care
- Applying effective communication strategies to enhance client interactions
- Building strong relationships with clients with IDD
- Advocating for improved resources and supports to enhance service delivery for both clients with IDD and professionals who serve them.
Course 2: Mental Health Assessment and Treatment for Clients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Part 2 of the series is an intermediate practice course that instructs mental health professionals on assessment and treatment of clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health diagnosis. Topics include:
- Application of disability justice principles in practice
- Prevalence of trauma and trauma-informed care
- Thoughtfully involving supports (family, support providers, others)
- Centering the client by honoring identity and autonomy
- Understanding behavior and communication
- Adapting assessment and therapy
- Case study and practical examples
Completion of Course 1 is not required.
Access the Accessible Mental Health Care Training Series
To learn more about the Accessible Mental Health Care Series, including how to access the courses on Compass, visit the Mental Health Provider Training Program webpage.
