Evaluating Online-Supported Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children With Autism and Emotional Challenges in Community and Navy Clinics

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy CBT compared to usual clinical care for children aged 6 to 14 years with autism and emotional difficulties such as irritability and anxiety. This 4-year randomized controlled trial involves 50 mental health clinicians, each treating two children, to assess how well a CBT program designed for emotional regulation and core autism symptoms works in community and Navy clinics. In this study, clinicians are randomly assigned to either a CBT program called Behavioral Interventions for Anxiety in Children with Autism BIACA with weekly expert consultation, or to provide usual care supplemented by self-instruction CBT resources available online. The BIACA program includes 16 weekly sessions involving both the child and parents, using exposure therapy and social skills coaching. Usual care clinicians may provide various therapies and have access to CBT self-help materials until they complete their participation. Children and their families will be assessed weekly using the Brief Problem Monitor to track changes in emotional regulation. Additional evaluations occur at screening, mid-treatment, post-treatment, and three months after treatment ends. Researchers will also monitor social responsiveness and parent satisfaction. The study lasts about 29 weeks per participant, with careful monitoring of therapy sessions, outcomes, and overall progress throughout.

CBT for Youth With Autism and Emotional/Behavioral Needs in Community Care Settings