Actively Recruiting
Implementation Science-Guided Pilot Study of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Autistic Youth in Community Mental Health Settings
Led by Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center · Updated on 2026-05-13
24
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
D
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Autistic youth face a higher risk of experiencing traumatic events and trauma-related symptoms compared to the general population. Addressing trauma effectively is a top priority for autistic individuals, but many community providers feel they lack proper training in trauma treatment. This study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), modified specifically for autistic youth, to be used in Community Mental Health Centers. In this open pilot study, autistic youth will receive the modified TF-CBT intervention, which is an evidence-based treatment designed to help children and adolescents recover from trauma. Clinicians participating in the study will be trained in how to adapt and deliver TF-CBT specifically for autistic youth. The intervention focuses on addressing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and other trauma-related effects. Participants will be assessed for acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the intervention six months after starting treatment using standardized measures. The study involves outpatient psychotherapy services, with ongoing participation from both autistic youth aged 6 to 18 and their non-offending caregivers. Researchers will also monitor intervention characteristics and usability during the study period, which aims to improve trauma treatment in community settings.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
TF-CBT for Autistic Youth Pilot Implementation - Open Pilot
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Therapists employed at a participating Community Mental Health Center for at least 6 months
- Therapists trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Therapists have an eligible autistic youth on their current caseload
- Child participants between 6 and 18 years old (up to 17 years, 11 months)
- Child has a current medical diagnosis of autism
- Child has a non-offending caregiver able to participate in treatment
- Child has initiated outpatient psychotherapy with a participating therapist
- Child has a moderate level of trauma-related distress as measured by the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen-2 (CATS-2)
You will not qualify if you...
- Child does not present trauma-related distress (scores in the "Normal" range on the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen-2 Self- and Parent-Report)
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Approximately 6 months
Participants receive Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) modified for autistic youth. Clinicians trained to deliver this adapted therapy provide treatment to help participants address trauma-related symptoms.
Weekly visits for up to 6 months
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center
Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States, 03756
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
K
Kaitlyn Ahlers, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Number of Arms
1
Similar Trials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here