Comparing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Versus Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Autistic Adults (NCT06060860)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
Autistic adults are at a greater risk for mental health problems compared to the general population, with 50% meeting criteria for a co-occurring psychiatric condition. Depression and anxiety are the most common of these conditions among autistic adults, contributing to long-term detrimental effects on health, day-to-day functioning, and quality of life. This study will conduct the first large-scale head-to-head comparison of the two most widely studied mental health interventions for autistic adults: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy (MBT). Both interventions are well-established, empirically supported treatments for depression and anxiety in the general population, and both interventions have demonstrated efficacy among autistic adults. However, their comparative effectiveness and heterogeneity of treatment effects have not been established in autistic adults. Both interventions will be delivered by telehealth.
Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.
Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Age range: 18 Years
🧪 Interventions in This Study
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (BEHAVIORAL)
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) (BEHAVIORAL)
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistFull eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria ↗
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (2 Sites)
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, Virginia
📞 Contact the Study Coordinator
Phone: (919) 966-8183
Email: laura_klinger@med.unc.edu
Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.
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Explore by condition: All Autism Spectrum Disorder clinical trials
💡 How to Participate
- Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
- Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
- Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
- Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.