Remote problem-solving program for autistic teens and their caregiver
Official title: The Effect of Dyadic Metacognitive Strategy Training in Autistic Youth or Young Adults and a Primary Caregiver
Run by University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT07216196 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test a remote problem‑solving program (PREP) for autistic adolescents and young adults ages 13–21 together with a primary caregiver to help with independence and transition skills.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 13 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Missouri-Columbia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbia, Missouri) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 8, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 3, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 3, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 28, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07216196 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Autistic adolescents aged 13–21 who have at least one year remaining in high school, can engage in reciprocal conversation, and have a primary caregiver willing to participate are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Those with severe or profound intellectual disability (IQ <35), severe mental health conditions that prevent participation, or already enrolled in overlapping community transition services may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This trial delivers PREP, a metacognitive problem‑solving and environmental‑modification intervention, remotely to dyads of autistic adolescents or young adults and a primary caregiver. Participants set family‑chosen goals and work with clinicians on activity or environment changes rather than isolated skill drills. The study primarily measures feasibility and acceptability and includes limited efficacy testing on participation, health, and transition outcomes, using a waitlist crossover design. Sessions are conducted remotely and outcomes are measured by standardized participation and well‑being instruments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve day‑to‑day independence, participation, and smoother transitions to adulthood for autistic youth and reduce caregiver burden.
How similar studies have gone: PREP has shown improvements in activity performance and participation for youths with physical disabilities and autistic children ages 6–12, but it has not been rigorously tested in autistic adolescents or young adults.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Autistic adolescents aged 13-21 AND one primary parent, guardian, or caregiver aged 18 or older * At least one year remaining in high school * Ability to engage in reciprocal conversation * Ability to provide informed consent/assent as part of an adapted procedure designed to prevent coercion and protect the rights of autistic adolescents with or without intellectual disability Exclusion Criteria: * Severe or profound intellectual disability (IQ\<35) * Severe mental health conditions that interfere with ability to participate in the intervention * Currently enrolled in community-based transition services redundant with remote PREP
Where it's running
-
University of Missouri - Columbia
Columbia, Missouri, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Melanie M. Tkach, PhD — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Melanie M. Tkach, PhD
- Email: melanie.tkach@health.missouri.edu
- Phone: 573-882-0992
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.