RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07420478

TF-CBT for Autistic Youth Pilot Implementation - Open Pilot

Implementation Science-Guided Pilot Study of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Autistic Youth in Community Mental Health Settings

Sponsor

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center

Enrollment

24 participants

Start Date

Mar 31, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Autism Autism Spectrum Disorder PTSD and Trauma-related Symptoms Mental Health Services Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders

Summary

Compared to the general population, autistic youth are at increased risk for both exposure to potentially traumatic events and trauma-related symptoms following trauma exposure. Autistic people identify approaches to effectively addressing trauma as a top mental health research priority, yet providers in community settings often report inadequate training in trauma treatment. The purpose of this study is to conduct an open pilot to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an evidence-based intervention for youth affected by trauma, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), that has been modified for autistic youth served in Community Mental Health Centers.

Eligibility

Min Age: 6 YearsMax Age: 17 Years

Inclusion Criteria8

Employed as a clinician at a participating Community Mental Health Center (CMHC; publicly-funded mental health program) for at least 6 months.
Trained in TF-CBT.
Has an eligible autistic youth on current caseload (see below).
Between 6 and 18 years old (up to 17 years, 11 months).
Current medical diagnosis of autism.
Has a non-offending caregiver who is able to participate in treatment (i.e., caregiver who is not the perpetrator of the abuse/other trauma).
Initiated outpatient psychotherapy services from participating therapist within enrolled CMHC.
A moderate level of trauma-related distress as measured by the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen-2 (CATS-2).

Exclusion Criteria1

\. Does not present with trauma-related distress (score falls within the "Normal" range as measured by the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen-2 Self- and Parent-Report).

Interventions

BEHAVIORALTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, modified for autistic youth

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment to help children and adolescents recover after trauma. It is a structured, evidence-based treatment model that addresses posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and other trauma-related symptoms. In TF-CBT, modified for autistic youth, clinicians will modify their use of TF-CBT for autistic youth. Clinicians will be trained in how to deliver TF-CBT to autistic youth.