Psychological Care
People with learning disabilities are more likely to experience circumstances that affect their psychological wellbeing, such as social isolation, physical health problems and poverty. People with learning disabilities are also more likely to experience mental health difficulties than people without a learning disability. The learning resources and information in this section will support you to improve your knowledge and skills around supporting psychological care.
Essentials of Learning Disability
Three modules about psychological wellbeing are available in Essentials of Learning Disability:
- Understanding psychological difficulties
- What is psychological therapy?
- Supporting someone engaged in psychological therapy
Psychological Interventions for low mood
Beat It and Step Up are evidence based adapted psychological interventions for people with learning disabilities and low mood.
Two modules introducing these interventions are available. When you are logged into Turas, you will see them below. They are called:
Talking therapies for depression: beat it
Talking therapies for depression: step up
NES has previously offered interactive training in Beat It. Resources to support implementation are in development. If you want to find out more, contact: LearningDisability@nes.scot.nhs.uk
Thinking about me
This resource aims to develop practitioners’ knowledge and understanding of psychological care.
Psychological Wellbeing Framework
This educational framework aims to support knowledge and skills development across the workforce to meet the psychological needs of people with Learning Disabilities.
Connection before Correction Webinar
This recorded webinar with Allan Skelley explores the importance of building trust, relationships and emotional safety as the foundation for effective support. Drawing on attachment theories and trauma-informed principles, it highlights why understanding emotional development and prioritising connection are essential when supporting people with learning disabilities, autism or complex needs.
To request access to view the recording of the webinar, please complete this short form: Connection before Correction Recording Request form