Feasibility Study of DBT Skills Training Adapted for Autistic Adults with Emotion Regulation Difficulties

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether a treatment program using an adapted version of Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT is feasible, accepted, and useful for adults with autism who have difficulties in emotion regulation. Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD is a lifelong condition with challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors, often accompanied by co-occurring mental health issues. This project aims to improve emotion regulation, relationships, and crisis management to enhance personal goals, reduce suffering, and improve quality of life for autistic adults. The study involves a DBT skills training program tailored to autistic adults, incorporating autism-specific adjustments like simplified skills, more visuals, hands-on training, and sensory accommodations. The intervention includes 2-3 initial sessions focused on treatment orientation, followed by 28 weekly two-hour group skills training sessions led by two therapists, a mid-treatment evaluation session, and a final summary session. Groups consist of approximately 4-6 participants. The intervention period is from August 2025 to February 2027. Participants will be assessed before and after the treatment using scales measuring difficulties in emotion regulation, treatment participation, coping strategies, diary cards, and qualitative interviews. Researchers will track dropout rates, session attendance, homework completion, and participants experiences. The study seeks to provide feasibility and acceptability data for this treatment approach in a naturalistic outpatient psychiatric setting, with a total treatment duration of 28 weeks.

DBT Skill Training for Autistic Adults With Difficulties in Emotion Regulation.