This presentation reviews the prevalence of developmental disabilities in the 3-17 age group and highlights this population’s vulnerability to exposure to traumatic events and development of PTSD. It calls attention to the high demand for effective trauma treatments for this population given the limitations of traditional talk therapies in working with those with deficits in intellectual functioning, communication skills, and affective regulation. Adaptations to evidence-based trauma treatment using play-based interventions are discussed involving the children’s multiple care providers.

Once this session is complete, you will be able to:

1) Highlight said population’s significant increased vulnerability to trauma exposure and PTSD development owing to deficits in intellectual functioning, communication skills, and social skills; and,

2) Present some necessary adaptations to traditional evidence-based trauma treatments (e.g. TF-CBT & EMDR) to render them effective for individuals with disabilities.