Using systemic and psychodynamic psychotherapy with a couple in a community learning disabilities context: a case study.

This paper describes the process of couple therapy with a client who has a mild
learning disability and cerebral palsy, and her partner, who also has cerebral palsy
(all information has been anonymised and pseudonyms are used throughout).
Informed consent was gained from both individuals for the purposes of writing
about their case. Therapy spanned twelve sessions and was informed by systemic
and psychodynamic ways of thinking. Formulations are discussed, and
psychological theory is linked to what happened in the therapy room. The current
study takes a reflective stance and discusses the process of therapy, which includes
successes as well as pitfalls. Pertinent issues for people with learning disabilities are
discussed in terms of power dynamics, the impact of physical disability, capacity to
consent to therapy and the effects of abuse.