Coaching While Waiting for Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment: A Pilot Feasibility Study for a Randomized Controlled Trial on Occupational Performance Coaching and Service Navigation

Abstract

Aim: To determine whether short-phase Occupational Performance Coaching combined with service navigation support is feasible for families waiting for autism assessment. Method: A pilot feasibility study was conducted using a blinded randomization procedure that allocated participants to one of three trial arms: (1) face-to-face coaching, (2) videoconference coaching, and (3) usual care. Outcomes included a retention aim of 70–80%, goal attainment and secondary standardised measures of adaptive behaviour, social skills, parenting stress, service access and family quality of life. Results: Caregivers and children (n = 16, child mean age of 3 years 7 months) were recruited following referral for an autism assessment. Retention was 75%, with change scores in performance and satisfaction of selected goals higher in the intervention groups than the usual care group. Interpretation: Findings support progression to a future randomized controlled trial assessing intervention efficacy.