Wednesday, 17 September 2025

Easy Read Guide: Job Roles in Learning Disability and Mental Health

 



Clinical Psychologist

What They Do

A clinical psychologist helps people with learning disabilities and mental health needs.
They:

  • Look at how a person is feeling and thinking.

  • Find out if they have problems like anxiety or depression.

  • Give therapy and support to help people feel better.

  • Work with families and staff so everyone understands.

  • Make sure people get the right services and support.


Key Responsibilities (Main Jobs)

  • Assessment and Diagnosis: Check carefully to see what the person’s needs are.

  • Formulation: Make a clear plan about the person’s strengths and difficulties.

  • Therapy: Talk to people and teach coping skills.

  • Psychoeducation: Explain learning disability and mental health to families and staff.

  • Support and Advocacy: Speak up for the person so they get the help they need.

  • Consultation and Training: Give advice to teachers, carers, and other workers.

  • Service Development: Help improve services and support for people.


Where They Work

  • Community: Visiting people in supported living or their own homes.

  • Specialist Services: Hospitals or mental health wards.

  • Schools/Education: Working with teachers and parents.

  • Healthcare and Social Care: Being part of a big team in clinics or social services.


Occupational Therapist (OT)

What They Do

An occupational therapist helps people of all ages to live their everyday lives.
They:

  • Help people recover after illness or injury.

  • Support people with learning disabilities or mental health conditions.

  • Teach ways to be more independent.

  • Show people how to use equipment to make life easier.


Key Responsibilities (Main Jobs)

  • Assessment and Goals: Check what the person can do and what they find hard.

  • Planning Treatment: Make a plan to help the person improve skills.

  • Adaptive Equipment: Teach people how to use special tools or devices.

  • Environment Changes: Suggest changes to home or work to make things easier.

  • Education and Training: Teach families and carers new skills.

  • Teamwork: Work with doctors, nurses, and other health staff.


Who They Help

  • Children: with autism, learning problems, or delays.

  • Adults: after brain injury, stroke, or accident.

  • Older Adults: with dementia, Parkinson’s, or health conditions.

  • People with Mental Health Needs: helping them to cope and take part in daily life.

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