Improving treatment experiences for autistic adults with substance use disorder
Official title: Improving Substance Use Disorder Treatment Experiences and Outcomes for Autistic Adults using SkillFlix Video-based Microskills Training
Funded at Dfusion, INC. · NIH-11178973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating helpful videos to train treatment providers on how to better communicate with autistic adults who are dealing with substance use issues, making sure they get the support they need during their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dfusion, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scotts Valley, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $306,240 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DA063374-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are autistic adults who are experiencing or at risk for substance use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism or are not experiencing substance use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the treatment experiences and outcomes for autistic adults facing substance use disorder (SUD) by developing video-based training materials. These videos will focus on improving the communication skills of treatment providers, ensuring they can better accommodate the unique needs of autistic individuals. The approach includes creating short, demonstrative videos that model effective interactions and advocacy strategies for patients. By addressing the specific challenges faced by autistic individuals in treatment settings, the project seeks to foster a more supportive and effective treatment environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment experiences and outcomes for autistic adults with substance use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has indicated that tailored communication strategies can significantly improve treatment outcomes for individuals with autism, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Dfusion, INC.
Scotts Valley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Firpo-Triplett, Regina — Dfusion, INC.
- Study coordinator: Firpo-Triplett, Regina
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.