Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment group for autistic youth with anxiety
What's the study about?
This study evaluates Facing Your Fears, an evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program designed to help autistic children manage anxiety symptoms. The project aims to better understand how this structured, group-based intervention supports emotional regulation, coping skills, and anxiety management in autistic youth, while also examining factors that may influence treatment outcomes.
Who can participate?
Autistic children between the ages of 8 and 14 who experience clinically significant anxiety symptoms may be eligible to participate. Participants must be verbally fluent and have a confirmed autism diagnosis, and be able to participate in group-based activities. A caregiver is also required to participate by completing questionnaires and attending group sessions.
What will participants be doing?
Participants will complete an initial evaluation to determine whether they are eligible. If eligible, children will be randomly assigned to either the treatment group or a waitlist control group. Children and caregivers in the treatment group will participate in a free, 14-week group-based CBT program focused on anxiety management skills. Caregivers and children will complete questionnaires before and after the intervention, and children will complete behavioral and physiological assessments (e.g., EEG) during these pre and post intervention visits. The study includes up to three in-person visits, each lasting approximately 2–3 hours, and 90-minute group session weekly for 14 weeks.
Why is this important?
Anxiety is one of the most common and impairing co-occurring conditions in autistic children, yet access to evidence-based treatments remains limited. This study will teach autistic youth effective strategies to manage their anxiety, and improve understanding of biological mechanisms underlying anxiety in autistic youth. Findings from this research may help improve future clinical programs, increase access to effective treatments, and support better mental health outcomes for autistic individuals and their families.