Abstract
This chapter introduces I Can Succeed (ICS), a treatment model for adolescents with specific learning disorder (SLD), and two applications of it as universal, school-based programs (ICS-ES, elementary school; and ICS-PS, preschool). Based on Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depressed Adolescents (IPT-A), ICS is a manual-based psychological intervention consisting of 13 weekly sessions followed by six monthly sessions. ICS targets emotional, interpersonal, and academic functioning via skill enhancement and strengthening supportive relationships. In a trial with 40 adolescents diagnosed with SLD, 97% of participants found ICS helpful. Analysis showed improved relationships and a decrease in externalizing and internalizing problems. ICS was then adapted for preventive use, converting it from a one-on-one psychotherapy protocol to a school-based social-emotional learning (SEL) program that aims to enhance all students’ social and emotional skills to decrease and prevent psychopathologies. A study of 419 fourth-grade students found that those who participated in ICS-ES showed improved assertiveness, reduced internalizing symptoms and bullying, and improved academic achievements in their native language. A randomized control trial of six preschools found children participating in ICS-PS improved their emotional, behavioral, EF, and academic functioning. Future research will examine the specific contributions of different aspects of the programs.
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Kopelman-Rubin, D., Brunstein-klome, A., Mufson, L. (2023). An Evidence-Based Psychological Treatment Program for Learning Disorders: The I Can Succeed Program. In: Margolis, A.E., Broitman, J. (eds) Learning Disorders Across the Lifespan. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-21772-2_7
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