Involving Carers in Therapy for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Client, Carer and Therapist Perspectives

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: Involving Carers in Therapy for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Client, Carer and Therapist Perspectives
Language: English
Authors: Charlotte Farnsworth (ORCID 0009-0001-1129-7749), Thomas Schröder (ORCID 0000-0002-6466-4960)
Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. 2025 38(6).
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 17
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Information Analyses
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Caregiver Role, Therapy, Intellectual Disability, Participation, Confidentiality, Safety, Interpersonal Relationship, Affordances, Counseling, Mental Health
DOI: 10.1111/jar.70152
ISSN: 1360-2322
1468-3148
Abstract: Background: Adaptations are frequently reported when delivering therapy to people with an intellectual disability, including the involvement of carers. This review aimed to understand the experience of carer involvement from the perspective of the person, therapist and caregiver. Methods: A systematic search of six databases and of reference lists was conducted. The quality of the included studies was assessed using an adapted version of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist. Data was synthesised using meta-ethnography. Results: Sixteen studies were included but their quality varied. Five third-order constructs were identified: safety, therapeutic process, relationships, personal impact on carer and improving the experience. Conclusion: Findings suggest that carer involvement can be a positive experience and aid the therapy process. However, this depended on several factors including carer motivation and consistency. Confidentiality issues were highlighted. Limitations of studies included poor reporting on participant demographics and small samples. Future research and clinical implications are suggested.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1493834
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Background: Adaptations are frequently reported when delivering therapy to people with an intellectual disability, including the involvement of carers. This review aimed to understand the experience of carer involvement from the perspective of the person, therapist and caregiver. Methods: A systematic search of six databases and of reference lists was conducted. The quality of the included studies was assessed using an adapted version of the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist. Data was synthesised using meta-ethnography. Results: Sixteen studies were included but their quality varied. Five third-order constructs were identified: safety, therapeutic process, relationships, personal impact on carer and improving the experience. Conclusion: Findings suggest that carer involvement can be a positive experience and aid the therapy process. However, this depended on several factors including carer motivation and consistency. Confidentiality issues were highlighted. Limitations of studies included poor reporting on participant demographics and small samples. Future research and clinical implications are suggested.
ISSN:1360-2322
1468-3148
DOI:10.1111/jar.70152