In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, the conversation focuses on mental health care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, also known as IDD. Dr. Marti Velez, Psychologist and Training Director at FCS, joins Dr. Michael Collins, Psychiatrist at FCS, and Christine Marsh, Executive Vice President at FCS, to discuss assessment, diagnosis, medication, therapy, caregiver support and the importance of seeing the whole person behind the diagnosis.

Together, they explore how mental health needs can be missed when behaviors are viewed only through the lens of disability. The episode highlights individualized assessment, brain-based approaches, communication needs and caregiver involvement. It also challenges the misconception that individuals with IDD do not experience trauma, anxiety, depression or other mental health needs.

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