How can I find a therapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional with experience working with individuals with Down syndrome? Here are a few suggestions.
Contact a Down syndrome clinic in your state.
Several national organizations have lists of Down syndrome clinics on their websites. If there is a clinic near you but adults are not seen, the clinic may be able to recommend mental health professionals in the area who see adults.
Global Down Syndrome Foundation .png "opens in new window")
National Down Syndrome Congress
National Down Syndrome Society
Contact a local Down syndrome organization.
Your local Down syndrome organization or parent group may be able to provide recommendations for mental health professionals and/or put you in contact with other families who have worked with mental health professionals in your area. Several national organizations also have lists of local groups on their websites.
Global Down Syndrome Foundation
National Down Syndrome Congress
National Down Syndrome Society
Use the "Find a Therapist" tool on the Psychology Today website.
The Find a Therapist tool allows you to search for therapists, teletherapy, psychiatrists, treatment centers, and support groups. After searching for your zip code, you can use the filters to find professionals who take your insurance, offer particular types of therapy, and have experience in certain areas. Under the "Issues" tab, there are options for "Developmental Disorders," "Intellectual Disability," and "Learning Disabilities." There are also options for specific mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, and OCD.
Resources
Several resources have been developed for mental health professionals working with individuals with Down syndrome. They provide recommendations on how to adapt their approach to best support individuals with Down syndrome.
Expand Your Knowledge on Mental Health and the I/DD Population (webinar from the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area)
Practicing Inclusive Mental Healthcare of Individuals with Down Syndrome (guidebook from the National Down Syndrome Society)
Mental Health Therapy Toolkit and Guidelines (resources from The Ohio State University Nisonger Center)