Exposure to alcohol in utero is considered to be the leading cause of developmental disabilities of known etiology. The most severe consequence of such exposure, fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), is characterized by a distinct constellation of characteristic facial anomalies, growth retardation, and central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. Some…

Objective: To describe an adapted version of dialectical behavior therapy for adolescents with bipolar disorder. Method: The dialectical behavior therapy intervention is delivered over 1 year and consists of two modalities: family skills training (conducted with individual family units) and individual therapy. The acute treatment period (6 months)…

There have been some challenges to the reliance upon data from randomised controlled clinical trials when identifying "evidence-based" psychotherapy treatments. Similarly, data show that use of treatment manuals does not result in uniform and beneficial outcomes, that some evidence-based treatments are little better than non-specific…

This case report addresses assessment and treatment considerations for a patient suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the context of mild traumatic brain injury and ongoing pain. Management of this case is based on the application of evidence-based therapy, and of cognitive behaviour therapy, for PTSD reduction. Assessment and…

Over the past thirty years, Problem Solving Therapy (PST) has been shown to be an effective treatment for many different problems and patient populations (Nezu, 2004). Among its many clinical applications, PST interventions were developed for persons with intellectually disabilities (ID), where improving problem-solving skills led to adaptive…

Background: Cognitive skills thought to be necessary to undertake cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) include the ability to recognize emotions, link events and emotions, and recognize cognitive mediation. These skills have been assessed in people with intellectual disabilities, but not in those who also have psychosis. Materials and methods:…

Background: It is striking that although cognitive behavioural therapy was developed to treat depression in the general population, there remains a paucity of research concerning its application to people with intellectual disabilities. Recent research points to the importance of understanding people's distress in the context of their particular…

A current manual for treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children and youth using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is presented. The three chapters of the Introduction present a review of medical diagnosis and assessment of pediatric OCD, psychological assessment techniques, and an overview of treatment. Theoretical background…

Available from: Sage Publications, Inc., 275 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90212. Presented are guidelines for the identification of target behaviors and suitable intervention techniques by therapists using behavior modification techniques. (IM)

The article reports the case history of a 15-year-old Australian girl with anorexia nervosa. Information is also given on prevalence, causes, definitions, and treatments including hospitalization, co-therapy, psychotherapy, behavior modification, family therapy, and counseling. (DB)

"Empirically Based Play Interventions for Children" is a compilation of innovative, well-designed play interventions, presented for the first time in one text. Play therapy is the oldest and most popular form of child therapy in clinical practice and is widely considered by practitioners to be uniquely responsive to children's developmental needs.…

Treatment of a child-abusing mother that used parent skill training and videotape feedback eliminated the physical abuse and provided a more appropriate relationship. (Author/SS)

In response to James Mulick (EC 232 032), this paper encourages agreement in the field of mental retardation on the term "aversive"; new "outcome" standards for behavioral support; support that respects personal dignity; and fidelity of behavioral interventions in typical school and community settings. (DB)

The Autism Program at Camarillo State Hospital and Developmental Center (California) has implemented "deinstitutionalization" within a large facility by providing effective and appropriate treatment based on individual needs. This paper describes the design of treatment services, quality assurance mechanisms, medical care (including…

A variety of cognitive and behavioral techniques used most commonly by practicing cognitive therapists is described, including clinical examples and recommendations for their implementation. (Author)