Even though MD is destructive physically, psychological and emotional issues related to physical disability can cause serious challenges. Emotional wellbeing is incredibly important to the Foundation and therefore we provide support services to all our affected members.
Individual therapy involves a person meeting with a social worker to talk about their concerns and challenges.
Typical services include:
- Addressing negative feelings towards being disabled.
- Identifying special needs.
- Assistance in locating resources in the community that may help, inclusive of special medical equipment and education.
- Assist with the application for these services.
- Linking other families/individuals with the same disability.
- Referral to other specialist services.
- Provide life skills programmes, such as parenting, anger management, etc.
Family Therapy is a type of therapy that involves members of a family. Family members may not all be present, but the social worker views the individuals as members of a family and explores issues within the context of the family. Therapy can focus on things like parenting, solving family conflicts, or communicating better.
Doctors diagnose some disabilities at birth or even before birth while others are discovered later. It is “normal” for parents and family members to feel all sorts of emotions when a child is diagnosed with a disability. They may feel sad, angry, confused, ashamed, or scared. They may even go through a grieving process (as people do when someone close to them dies). Many families are the key support for persons with disabilities. Family support services are vital for these families and require services from social workers as this can be a very challenging role and may leave them feeling physically and mentally drained.
Group therapy involves several clients meeting together to explore similar issues. When working with disabled persons in groups, social workers may address issues such as:
- Behavior problems
- Emotional issues
- Hygiene
- Anger management
- Coping skills
- Grief
- Providing support
- Assistance and explanations or demonstrations of assistive devices
- Promoting independence and a way to contribute to their community
- Supporting people to access employment and leisure opportunities
