A mixed methods study of autistic adults' mental health therapy experiences

Author:

Mazurek Micah O.1ORCID,Pappagianopoulos Jessica1,Brunt Sophie1ORCID,Sadikova Eleonora1,Nevill Rose1,Menezes Michelle1,Harkins Christina1

Affiliation:

1. Department of Human Services University of Virginia Charlottesville Virginia USA

Abstract

AbstractAutistic adults are at high risk for co‐occurring mental health problems and need access to effective and appropriate mental health treatment. However, the relative effectiveness or acceptability of specific mental health strategies among autistic adults has not been previously examined. The current study sought to gain a deeper understanding of autistic adults' experiences and preferences regarding mental health strategies using a mixed methods approach. Autistic adults (n = 303, ages 21–77) completed online surveys and open‐ended questions about their mental health and therapy experiences. Most (88.8%) had participated in therapy, with cognitive approaches being the most common. Regarding overall therapy experiences, qualitative analyses revealed four primary themes and nine subthemes. Therapist acceptance and understanding were seen as critical for therapy success, and many participants felt that therapy was helpful for personal growth. However, many participants found that talking in session was challenging and noted that aspects of the session format affected their ability to engage in therapy. Regarding specific strategies, four cross‐cutting themes and eight strategy‐specific subthemes were identified. A variety of strategies were seen as helpful for reducing anxiety and improving mood. However, autistic adults reported trouble generalizing strategies to daily life and found some techniques to be difficult to implement due, in part, to their unique autism‐related needs. As the first study of its kind, the results underscore the importance of establishing a safe and accepting therapeutic relationship, providing accommodations to support communication needs, and considering individual differences and preferences when selecting mental health strategies for autistic clients.

Funder

National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences

National Institutes of Health

Curry School of Education and Human Development, University of Virginia

Publisher

Wiley

Subject

Clinical Psychology

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