Metacognitive therapy for anxiety and depression in autistic young people
Can Metacognitive Therapy be Used to Treat Common Mental Health Problems in Autistic Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Case Series
NA · University of Manchester · NCT05980143
This study is testing a special type of therapy for autistic kids and teens aged 11-16 to see if it can help them feel less anxious and depressed.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 5 (estimated) |
| Ages | 11 Years to 16 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Manchester (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Manchester and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05980143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study explores the effectiveness of metacognitive therapy (MCT) in treating anxiety and depression in autistic children and young people (CYP) aged 11-16. It aims to adapt the therapy to better meet the unique needs of autistic individuals, as traditional therapies may not be suitable. Participants will undergo at least eight therapy sessions, with their progress monitored through questionnaires at various stages. The study utilizes a systematic case series design to evaluate the outcomes of MCT for this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are autistic children and young people aged 11-16 who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression.
Not a fit: Patients with significant safeguarding concerns, head injuries, ADHD, or eating disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could provide a tailored approach to treating anxiety and depression in autistic young people, improving their mental health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While metacognitive therapy has shown promise in other populations, this specific application for autistic CYP is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 11-16 years * Consent given * Formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder * Fluent in English * Seeking treatment for emotional disorder symptoms (i.e., generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, agoraphobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety; and/or depression) * Medication for mental health problems permitted but participants must be stabilised for 6 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of significant risk or safeguarding concerns * Head injury/organic impairment * Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (formal diagnosis or under assessment) * Eating Disorder
Where this trial is running
Manchester and 1 other locations
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust — Manchester, United Kingdom (NOT_YET_RECRUITING)
- Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust — Manchester, United Kingdom (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kathryn Wood
- Email: kathryn.wood-5@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk
- Phone: 0161 529 4180
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.
Conditions: Anxiety, Depression, Anxiety symptoms, Depression symptoms, Metacognitive therapy, Children and young people, Autism