Developing a Mechanistically Informed Therapy for Aversive Sensory Experiences with Autistic Youth
The goal of this study is to assess whether a new psychological treatment can lead to changes in sensory experiences in autistic young people. Participants will complete a group intervention designed to help manage sensory difficulties and associated anxiety. Participants will also complete tasks before and after the intervention to assess whether the treatment can lead to changes in brain and behavioural responses to sensory experiences. The main questions the study aims to answer are: 1. Does the intervention improve sensory difficulties and associated anxiety in autistic young people? 2. Does the intervention change brain and biological responses to sensory experiences in autistic young people? Researchers will also collect feedback from participants to help improve the design and delivery of the treatment in future studies.
• Confirmed clinical diagnosis of autism
• Verbal/intellectual ability in average range
• Sufficient spoken English to be able to access the intervention
• Under the care of a local mental health service
• Not currently taking part in another psychological intervention