Transdiagnostic Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression in Autistic Adolescents

This study tests the effectiveness of a transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy for autistic youth with anxiety and/or depression.

Inclusion Criteria:Child is between the ages of 12-17 at consent/assent.The child meets criteria for autism spectrum disorder using evidence-based assessment approaches (e.g., Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-Second Edition; Childhood Autism Rating Scale-Second Edition).The child meets criteria for clinically significant anxiety and/or depression symptoms based on elevated scores on the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale modified for Autism Spectrum Disorder (>11) and/or the Children's Depression Rating Scale-Revised (>39).Anxiety/depressive disorder is the primary presenting problem as determined by administration of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric InterviewOne parent/guardian is able and willing to participate.The parent/guardian is 18 years or older.Both parent and child can read and/or understand English.Both parent and child reside in Texas.Exclusion Criteria:The child has a diagnosis of psychotic disorder and/or conduct disorder.The child has severe suicidal/homicidal ideation and/or self-injury requiring immediate intervention and/or a higher level of care.The child has limited verbal communication abilities.The child is receiving concurrent psychotherapy for anxiety/depression.The child has initiated psychotropic medications within 12 weeks of assessments (or 4 weeks for stimulants/benzodiazepines) or during therapy, and/or has changed dosage of psychotropic medication within 6 weeks of assessment (or 2 weeks for stimulants/benzodiazepines) or during therapy.