Guidelines when visiting Learning Difficulties homes

This document is not intended to be an unabridged account of what to do when visiting Learning Difficulties homes but more of a brief explanation of what to expect and some basic guidelines of working in this industry.

Firstly, working with Adults with Learning Difficulties can be very challenging. However, it is also greatly rewarding.  Many clients have limited communication skills and we have found that aromatherapy is an ideal mechanism to help bridge the gap.  It is important to realise that all clients are different as are the homes in which they live.  Do not be surprised if an individual client only wants ten minutes of therapy, this is often the case and you should not be concerned because even ten minutes of therapy can provide remarkable results.  It is our experience that once a client becomes accustomed to the therapy (or therapist) the duration of the session will extend.  It is not common however to have more than 30 minute sessions in this environment. 

We recommend that during the first few sessions you have a member of staff with you.  This gives reassurance to both you and the client.  Make sure you know the environment in which you are working, know where your exits are and make sure you identify where the call buttons are located.

We recommend that you start a new client with work to the hands and feet as this is often received more willingly. Don’t rush things, relationships take much longer to develop in this environment.  Most clients live in a very regulated way, be sensitive to this and make sure that you never promise something that cannot be fulfilled. For example, don’t say “see you tomorrow” when the next session is scheduled for next week.

What to do on the first visit.

1.      Check with the staff if there are any “trigger” words for each individual

2.      Fill out the home medical form and a send a copy to us

3.      Find out how many clients there are and which are likely to benefit from therapy (This often grows with time, we have gone from 1 person in a home to the whole home wanting treatments)

4.      Does the home have a separate room for therapy or will you be using their individual rooms ?

5.      Call us and let us know how the visit went

 Most importantly, enjoy working in this very rewarding field.

Send mail to paul@calmer-solutions.com with questions or comments about this web site.
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Last modified: 07/28/09