Adapting a behavioral activation program for minimally verbal autistic adults
Adaptation of a Behavioral Activation Treatment to Treat Depression in Autistic Adults
This study is testing a new program designed to help minimally verbal autistic adults who feel down by making sure it fits their needs and is easy for them to use.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Piscataway, New Jersey) |
| Trial ID | NCT06064422 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to adapt the BeatIt-2 behavioral activation intervention specifically for minimally verbal autistic adults experiencing low mood. The first phase involves creating a tailored intervention manual with input from autistic individuals and their supporters. The second phase will conduct a feasibility trial to assess the acceptability and practicality of the adapted intervention. The study focuses on ensuring that the unique needs of this population are met through a collaborative approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are minimally verbal adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and clinically significant depression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not able to engage in treatment in English or are currently receiving other treatments for depression may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for minimally verbal autistic adults.
How similar studies have performed: While similar behavioral activation approaches have shown promise in other populations, this specific adaptation for minimally verbal autistic adults is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Minimally verbal * Aged 18 years or older * Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and clinically significant depression based on clinical best estimate diagnosis using DSM-5 or Diagnostic Manual - Intellectual Disability criteria * Have a support person willing to participate * Live in New Jersey or New York, or be within travel distance to Rutgers University Exclusion Criteria: * Not able to engage in treatment in English * current engagement in other treatment for depression * conditions that may preclude engagement in treatment sessions (e.g., active psychosis, unmanaged seizures) * high suicide risk (i.e., with a clear plan, expressed intent or recent documented attempts)
Where this trial is running
Piscataway, New Jersey
- Rutgers University - New Brunswick — Piscataway, New Jersey, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Vanessa Bal, PhD — Rutgers University - New Brunswick
- Study coordinator: Vanessa Bal, PhD
- Email: lifespanlab@gsapp.rutgers.edu
- Phone: 848-445-9384
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.