The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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UNC School of Medicine
Services Across the Lifespan for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
“Research”

About the Research Study

Research Study Goal:

Autistic Adults and Other Stakeholders Engage Together – Mental Health Therapy Programs (AASET-MHTP) research study is 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). This research study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of CBT versus MBT (both delivered by telehealth) to improve mental health and quality of life among autistic adults with anxiety or depression. This work is supported through a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Assessment of Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options Program Award (IDD-2022C1-26372)

Research Study Questions:

  1. Which approach results in better outcomes for autistic adults?
  2. What individual characteristics impact outcomes?
  3. Which intervention is more acceptable and feasible?

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

CBT includes identifying the thoughts or cognitions, as well as behaviors that are perpetuating intense emotions, then developing new cognitive and behavioral skills to manage emotional experiences more effectively. It is designed to help an individual deal with with persistent intense emotions and proven effective for treating depression and anxiety.

What is Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT)?

MBT means being able to bring direct, open-hearted awareness to what you are doing while you are doing it: being able to tune in to what’s going on in your mind and body, and in the outside world, moment by moment. It is designed to help an individual deal with persistent unwanted moods and proven effective for treating depression and anxiety.

What sites are involved in this study?

This project is a collaboration between The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and The University of Virginia. Researchers from both universities are working together to support and carry out the project. All study participants are located in North Carolina or Virginia, allowing the team to work closely with individuals and communities across both states.

When will study results be available?

Study results are expected to be available in the second half of 2027. Results will be shared after all participants have completed the study and the research team has carefully reviewed, organized, and analyzed all collected data.

Recruitment Update (Jan 1, 2024 – May 31, 2026)

  • 304 Participants Enrolled
  • 148 Completed Post-Therapy Research Visit
  • 91 Completed 6-month Research Visit