During the month of March, we observe Developmental Disabilities awareness month. The goal is to help raise awareness of and encourage greater levels of inclusivity, acceptance, and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities. As therapists, the Center for CBT in New York City team recognizes these awareness months, and we do our utmost to promote them for the greater health and wellness of our clients and communities. It’s also important to increase awareness about the role of therapy in the continuum of care for people with developmental disabilities and their loved ones.
What Are Development Disabilities?
Sometimes referred to as intellectual and developmental disabilities, this is an umbrella term that encompasses a spectrum of disorders that begin in infancy or childhood when people fall short of achieving specific milestones in physical, intellectual, and emotional development. In some cases, people will meet these milestones slightly later than expected, and in other situations, typical developmental milestones are never met. This set of conditions may impact a person’s ability to function or lead a completely fulfilling life. Others are able to develop adaptive behaviors that allow them to enjoy life more fully.
Does Therapy Help People with Developmental Disabilities?
Some people with developmental disabilities lead healthy, satisfying daily lives without the need for therapy and other interventions. Other people with development disabilities can benefit from the support of a therapist, especially if they develop cooccurring conditions like poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or substance misuse. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are more likely to experience these conditions as they experience higher levels of stress due to the differences in their ability levels, misperceptions, discrimination, as well as physical and psychic pain related to their developmental disabilities. Therapy offers many benefits for people struggling with developmental disabilities, especially those who are also experiencing one or more of these cooccurring conditions that can be diminished by working with a therapist. One of the main benefits is an increased feeling of self-confidence. People with developmental disabilities can feel their autonomy and independence are taken or diminished. Therapy increases a sense of self-reliance, which may lead to a greater amount of independence. Finally, managing the cognitive and emotional impact of developmental disabilities is an essential aspect of a comprehensive, whole-body approach to wellness. Therapy, just like other resources and interventions, helps people with developmental disabilities achieve a greater sense of overall wellbeing.
Are You Interested in Learning More?
At the Center for CBT in New York City, we love having the opportunity to provide support and resources for people with development disabilities as well as their loved ones. Whether you’re struggling with a cooccurring condition or just want to develop some new skills and coping strategies to navigate daily life more easily, our knowledgeable therapists are here for you. We have education and experience that allows us to provide the necessary support, resources, and accommodations to welcome people with developmental disabilities of all kinds. When you’re ready to get started, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to hearing from you over the phone at (917) 596-8955 or via our online contact form.
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