Cognitive Enhancement Therapy for Adult Autism Spectrum Disorder (Perspectives)
Autistic Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Autistic Disorder focused on measuring Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Asperger's Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Cognition, Social Cognition, Psychosocial Treatment, Cognitive Enhancement Therapy, Enriched Supportive Therapy, Therapy, Psychotherapy
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age 16-45 years
- Diagnosis of autism, Asperger's syndrome, or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (NOS) verified by the autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS) or autism diagnostic interview-revised (ADI-R)
- Presence of significant social and cognitive disability, based on the Cognitive Style and Social Cognition Eligibility Interview (Hogarty et al., 2004)
- Intelligence quotient (IQ) greater than 80
- Ability to read and speak fluent English
- Availability of a family member or close friend allowed to provide information on the participant
- Ability to attend weekly treatment sessions in Pittsburgh, PA
Exclusion Criteria:
- Organic brain syndrome
- IQ < 80
- English language skills below a sixth grade level
- Persistent suicidal or homicidal behavior
- History of substance abuse or dependence within the past 3 months
- Comorbid attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Comorbid personality disorder
- History of disruptive or violent behavior
- Any magnetic resonance imaging contraindications
Sites / Locations
- University of Pittsburgh
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Active Comparator
Cognitive Enhancement Therapy
Enriched Supportive Therapy
This research treatment aims to help with problems in thinking, planning, and socialization. Participants begin with cognitive training using computer software programs. They also participate in a small social-cognitive group to learn about their condition and how to act wisely in social situations by developing the abilities needed to understand another person's perspective, evaluate social contexts, and be foresightful. Time commitment: about 3½ hours per week; Location: Pittsburgh, PA only
This research treatment uses individual supportive therapy to help adults learn about autism spectrum disorder, manage their emotions and stress, improve their social skills, and cope with everyday problems. Participants will learn about the impact of stress on their lives, and how to identify their own early cues of distress and apply effective coping strategies. Time commitment: about 1 hour per week; Location: Pittsburgh, PA only