CBT for Tinnitus Distress Adapted for a Person With a Learning Disability: A Single Case Quasi-Experimental Design

Research suggests Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective intervention for tinnitus-related distress in typically developing adults. However, there is no specific evidence that CBT is effective for tinnitus distress in people with a learning disability (LD), or information regarding potential adaptations. This quasi-experimental single case study aimed to test the hypothesis that CBT would reduce tinnitus distress in a person with an LD. Quantitative and qualitative data showed significant reductions in self-reported tinnitus-related annoyance, sadness, interference with valued activities and sleep disturbance. All tinnitus distress-related measures except perceived loudness showed statistically significant improvement, with interference with valued activities showing the largest effect size, Ruscio’s A = 0.99, 95% CI [0.91, 0.99], p = .0026. Adaptations included use of visual and sensory aids, and inclusion of parental thoughts, feelings and behaviours as treatment targets. This study offers support for the efficacy of CBT for treating tinnitus distress in people with LD, and for the efficacy of carer-supported CBT in this population.