CBT FOR ASD AND OCD · Randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavioural therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder in autistic-spectrum disorders

Final Activity Report Summary - cbt for asd and ocd (Randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavioural therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder in autistic-spectrum disorders)

The development of effective treatments for mental disorders is a major challenge from a scientific as well as from a social point of view because of the great burden they represent in personal, social, and economic terms. Europe faces a shortage of highly trained neuroscientists which would be able to master the broad range of skills needed to advance the treatment of mental diseases and, more specifically, to carry out psychological treatment trials. The goal of this project was to receive training for running randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in psychological treatment and to acquire specific skills in this area by means of participating in a RCT of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). An additional goal was to disseminate the findings with the aim of increasing accessibility to effective psychological treatments for this population. ASD are characterised by pervasive developmental abnormalities in social and emotional behaviour. People with ASD frequently experience significant psychiatric or psychological problems associated with their social communication and cognitive impairments. Currently, adults and young people with ASD, specifically those with co-morbid ASD and OCD, are underprovided for in terms of their mental health needs. Most of the training objectives were fully accomplished by the fellow during the fellowship. The applicant received specific training in management of research data, design of RCTs, management of adherence to treatment protocols and development and dissemination of treatment manuals. Moreover, he would be able to bring the acquired knowledge to his country of origin and design and carry out independent research in the field of psychological treatments and, specifically, RCTs. Furthermore, the fellow received specialised training and supervision for the assessment and treatment of ASD with co-morbid OCD. 14 patients were enrolled so far for the trial and there were no major modifications to the methodology as stated in the original proposal. Patients were randomised to receive anxiety management training (AMT) or exposure and response prevention (ERP) by trained therapists using manualised treatments. An effective recruitment system was setup and reliable systems to ensure adequate data collection and treatment adherence were established. Finally, regarding dissemination, two treatment manuals adapted for people with ASD were developed. In case the trial proved to be successful, the manuals would become available for therapists working with this population and provide them with an effective treatment.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union