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Adapted Therapy in ID — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ

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EasyIntellectual DisabilityAdapted Therapy in IDMRCPsych Paper B

A man with a learning disability has a depressive disorder for which psychological treatment is indicated. According to NICE NG54, which general approach to psychological intervention is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: EFollow disorder-specific NICE guidance, adapting therapy to understanding and communication needs

The correct answer is E. NICE NG54 recommends referring to the relevant NICE guideline for the specific mental health problem and adapting the psychological intervention according to the person's preferences, level of understanding, strengths, impairments and communication needs. Adaptations may include changes to language, pace, structure and materials, with family or carer support where appropriate and agreed. Learning disability does not preclude evidence-based psychological treatment. Therapy need not have been developed exclusively for this population, so A is incorrect. Generic supportive counselling should not automatically replace a disorder-specific intervention, excluding C. Delivering an unmodified protocol may make treatment inaccessible, excluding D. Medication is not an automatic substitute for psychological therapy, excluding E.

Reference: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Mental health problems in people with learning disabilities: prevention, assessment and management (NG54), section 1.8, recommendations 1.8.1–1.8.5. 2016. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng54/chapter/Recommendations