A cognitive help or hindrance? A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy to treat anxiety in young people with autism spectrum disorder

Anxiety rates amongst autistic youth range from 11% to 84%. While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment of anxiety in neurotypical youth, there are concerns autistic youth lack the cognitive resources necessary to effectively engage with CBT. It is also unclear whether standard or adapted CBT is more effective. This review aims to compare the effects of standard and adapted CBT in the treatment of anxiety in autistic youth. Articles were searched across three online databases. 24 articles were selected for final review. All articles were published between 2008 and 2024. Total sample size was 1,140 and participant age ranged from 4-18 years. Various designs, settings, and CBT formats were incorporated. When treating anxiety in autistic youth, standard CBT is effective although CBT adapted to accommodate the autism-related needs of the youth appears more effective, with gains maintained up to 26 months post-treatment. Statistical analysis was not significant. Standard and adapted CBT are effective treatments of anxiety in autistic youth. To optimise outcomes, it may be important to consider the common cognitive styles associated with autism and adapt the therapeutic intervention accordingly. However, there is not yet statistical evidence for this hypothesis.