Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
Damage to the brain acquired after birth (from trauma, stroke, infection, or oxygen deprivation), often resulting in cognitive, emotional, or physical impairments. The leading evidence-based approach is multidisciplinary rehabilitation with cognitive rehabilitation—shown to improve attention, memory, and executive function across populations (van Heugten et al., Neuropsychology Review, 2012; see also Wilson et al., Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, 2023, link.springer.com).
 

Dementia
A progressive decline in memory and cognitive function beyond normal ageing. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is supported as the most effective psychosocial intervention, improving cognition and quality of life (Spector et al., British Journal of Psychiatry, 2003).
 

Alzheimer’s Disease
The most common form of dementia, characterised by gradual memory and functional decline due to neurodegeneration. Evidence supports cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA antagonists combined with person-centred care and structured routines (Birks, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2006).
 

Fibromyalgia
A chronic pain condition marked by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. Graded exercise therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) have the strongest support for symptom and function improvement (Busch et al., Arthritis Research & Therapy, 2007).
 

Autism & Neurodivergence (All Levels)
Neurodevelopmental conditions involving differences in social communication and sensory processing. Early, individualised developmental and behavioural interventions (including Applied Behaviour Analysis and Naturalistic Developmental Behavioural Interventions) are the most evidence-based approaches (Lovaas, Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 1987; Rogers & Dawson, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2010).
 

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity that interferes with functioning. Evidence supports combined behavioural therapy and medication (usually stimulant-based) as first-line treatment (MTA Cooperative Group, Archives of General Psychiatry, 1999).
 

Learning Difficulty
Persistent challenges acquiring academic skills such as reading, writing, or numeracy not due to low intelligence. Structured, scaffolded, and intensive educational interventions are best supported (Swanson et al., Journal of Learning Disabilities, 1999).
 

Dyslexia
A specific learning disorder affecting reading fluency and decoding. The most supported intervention is systematic, explicit phonics instruction (Snowling & Hulme, Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 2012).
 

Paraplegia
Paralysis of the lower limbs resulting from spinal cord injury. Intensive multidisciplinary rehabilitation and mobility training enhance independence and quality of life (Noonan et al., Spinal Cord, 2012).
 

Anxiety Disorders
Excessive fear or worry disproportionate to circumstances. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the gold-standard approach, with consistent moderate-to-large effect sizes across anxiety subtypes (Hofmann et al., Cognitive Therapy and Research, 2012; cambridge.org).
 

Depression (Major Depressive Episode)
Defined in DSM-IV as two or more weeks of depressed mood or loss of interest plus other cognitive and physical symptoms. CBT and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are equally first-line, with proven long-term relapse prevention (Cuijpers et al., The Lancet Psychiatry, 2013).
 

Schizophrenia
A chronic psychotic disorder with delusions, hallucinations, or disorganised thought for at least six months (DSM-IV). Antipsychotic medication plus psychosocial rehabilitation and family psychoeducation remains the evidence-based standard (Leucht et al., The Lancet, 2012).
 

Schizoaffective Disorder
Characterised by psychosis alongside mood episodes. Best evidence supports integrated pharmacotherapy (antipsychotic + mood stabiliser) combined with psychosocial rehabilitation (Vieta et al., Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 2018).
 

Bipolar Disorder
Episodes of mania/hypomania and depression. The leading approach is lithium or mood-stabilising medication combined with psychoeducation and structured therapy (Geddes et al., The Lancet, 2004).
 

Substance Use Disorder (General)
A maladaptive pattern of substance use causing significant distress or impairment. Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and Contingency Management are empirically supported core interventions (Miller & Rollnick, Motivational Interviewing, 2012; Dutra et al., American Journal of Psychiatry, 2008).
 

Ice (Methamphetamine) Addiction
A stimulant use disorder involving dependence and psychological harm. Contingency Management and CBT show the best sustained outcomes (Rawson et al., Addiction, 2004).
 

Marijuana (Cannabis) Addiction
Problematic cannabis use with tolerance and withdrawal. Motivational Enhancement Therapy combined with CBT is most effective (Budney et al., Addiction, 2007).
 

Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge-Eating)
Disturbances in eating behaviour and body image causing health or functional impairment. CBT-E and Family-Based Treatment are most evidence-supported (Fairburn et al., Behaviour Research and Therapy, 2015; Lock & Le Grange, American Journal of Psychiatry, 2019).
 

Post-Prison Societal Reintegration
Adjustment following incarceration, often involving trauma, stigma, and disrupted supports. Cognitive-behavioural re-entry programs, mentoring, and vocational rehabilitation reduce recidivism and improve reintegration (Lipsey et al., Campbell Systematic Reviews, 2007).
 

Spinal Injury
Damage to the spinal cord leading to partial or total loss of motor and sensory function. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation and assistive technology training improve long-term independence (Krause et al., Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2011).
 

Palliative & Aged Care
Holistic care for people with life-limiting illness or advanced age focused on comfort and dignity. Comprehensive multidisciplinary palliative models improve quality of life and reduce symptom burden (Temel et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2010).