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Psychological

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Emerging Evidence1 linked studyCompare with another

About This Intervention

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

Structured therapy addressing the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

Research

Evidence Summary

Current research on cognitive behavioural therapy for autism is very limited. Only one study meeting review criteria was found, classified as providing limited evidence. No participant data was available from this study. This means we cannot yet draw clear conclusions about whether CBT works for autistic individuals. More high-quality research involving larger groups of participants would be needed to understand its effectiveness.

Evidence last reviewed: 20 October 2026

Research

Linked Studies (1)

Emerging

Effects of Stepped Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Child Depressive and Externalizing Symptoms in Autistic Children With Anxiety.

American journal on intellectual and developmental disabilities2025

Rast Catherine E, Guzick Andrew G, Soileau Keaton J et al.

Plain-English summary

Researchers studied 76 autistic children with anxiety using a step-by-step treatment approach. All children started with parent-led self-help materials, then some moved to therapist sessions. Both groups saw improvements in depression and behavior problems. Surprisingly, children who stayed with parent-led help did better than those who moved to therapist sessions, but by 3 months later, both groups were doing equally well.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

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AutismInsights presents published research for informational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your child's paediatrician, psychologist, or allied health team before making decisions about therapies or interventions.