Peer-reviewed article

Psychodynamische Psychotherapie bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit einer geistigen Behinderung: Eine kurze Einführung / Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents with an Intellectual Disability: A Brief Introduction.

Oltzow K · 1 Sept 2026

Abstract

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents with an Intellectual Disability: A Brief Introduction Children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities are at an increased risk of developing mental disorders due to a range of risk factors, while access to psychotherapeutic care remains inadequate. This article provides an introduction to psychodynamic psychotherapy for this patient group and outlines central therapeutic principles. Particular emphasis is placed on a therapeutic stance of understanding, the role of countertransference processes, the adaptation of therapeutic interventions, collaboration with caregivers, and the therapeutic use of play. The article demonstrates that psychodynamic psychotherapy can make an important contribution to promoting emotional development, relationship capacity, and social participation.