Psychosocial interventions for internalizing disorders in youth and adults with ASD

Abstract

Internalizing disorders are common in individuals with ASD. Psychosocial interventions targeting these disorders in the ASD population have burgeoned in the last decade. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, modified for ASD, is the most frequently investigated model, although other interventions, including behaviour therapy, third-wave interventions, models targeting transdiagnostic constructs, and alternative interventions and treatment delivery methods are now emerging. This review provides a summary of the efficacy of these interventions in treating internalizing disorders in youth and adults with ASD. The barriers to accessing these treatments, which are experienced by many individuals with ASD and their families, as well as future research directions, are also discussed.

Keywords:

• Autism spectrum disorder psychosocial treatment
• internalizing disorders
• anxiety mood disorder

Disclosure statement

Dr Reaven receives royalties from Paul H. Brookes, publisher of the Facing Your Fears treatment manual. Drs Keefer, White, and Vasa report no conflicts of interest.