TF-CBT Informed Teletherapy for Children with Autism and their Families

Abstract

A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often puts a child in a vulnerable position. While the research of the effects of trauma on children diagnosed with ASD is limited, we know children diagnosed with ASD presenting with a comorbid diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. TF-CBT is an empirically validated treatment for trauma; in this paper, we provide adaptions for using this treatment with children diagnosed with ASD and using this method for teletherapy. These adaptions include recognizing trauma behaviors and ASD behaviors, the use of repetition and the need for flexibility from the therapist, and addressing safety with ASD behaviors while working from a teletherapy platform.