Psychotherapy with Patients with Neurocognitive Impairments

ABSTRACT Neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults demonstrate both learning and attention challenges that contribute to academic and social failures. The emotional consequences of these disorders include: lowered self-esteem, pervasive feelings of shame, profound insecurity about academic skills, and a deep sense of vulnerability. In many cases, symptoms of depression and anxiety are direct consequences of these challenges. Thus, many patients with neurocognitive difficulties will consult with psychotherapists for help in alleviating their psychiatric symptoms. It is therefore essential that clinicians are mindful of the various types of learning disorders, understand their impact on the developing psyche, and are able to facilitate insight and awareness of these issues. I will provide an overview of the different types of learning disorders, review the literature on common psychological themes found in the psychotherapy of individuals with these disorders, and then present case histories illustrating both themes in treatment and effective interventions. Such interventions will include psychoeducational, insight-oriented, and relational techniques.