‘Adultification to Infantilisation’: An integrative, relational case study of Cognitive Analytic Consultancy and Boundary Seesaw Models with Learning Disability support staff

Chloe (pseudonym) is a 23-year-old woman with a moderate learning disability (LD) and extensive history of medical and relational trauma, abuse and neglect. Chloe resides in supported community accommodation and was referred to the adult LD service by her care team for advice on how best to support her needs, distress, and associated behaviours (including frequent calls to emergency services). This article describes indirect psychological work with Chloe’s staff team. An integrative approach was informed by Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and Boundary Seesaw models. Easy to read summary ■ Chloe is a young woman with a learning disability who has had many difficult experiences in her life. She finds relationships hard and often calls 999 for care. ■ Chloe’s support staff asked psychologists to help them to understand her and to support her and each other better. ■ This work helped staff to feel more confident and caring. They learned how to keep a healthy balance in caring for Chloe and to avoid unhelpful responses.