Metacognitive Group Therapy for Depression and Anxiety in Adolescents with Autism aged 15-18

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a metacognitive group therapy designed for adolescents aged 15 to 18 who have anxiety andor depression along with an autism diagnosis. This open clinical trial aims to assess how well participants can be recruited and retained, their compliance and adherence to treatment, the feasibility of outcome measures, treatment acceptability, and any adverse effects. The study also aims to explore preliminary effects on symptoms, quality of life, functional impairment, stress levels, and metacognitive processes. The treatment involves metacognitive group therapy delivered face-to-face in 10 weekly sessions. Groups consist of six participants each, and therapists trained in metacognitive therapy conduct the sessions. The therapy follows a structured clinical manual based on Adrian Wells transdiagnostic A-M-C model for anxiety and depression. Assessments occur before treatment, after the 10-week intervention, and again at a 6-month follow-up. Participants will complete various assessments including the Revised Childrens Anxiety and Depression Scale RCADS, quality of life questionnaires, metacognition questionnaires, stress scales, and disability scales. Some metacognitive processes will be monitored during each group session. The study focuses on feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary treatment effects, analyzing data with paired sample tests. The total involvement includes initial screening, 10 weeks of therapy, and follow-up assessments at 6 months.

A Metacognitive Group Therapy of Depression and Anxiety in Youth With Autism