CAPS Program for Autism
(CAPS Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Drexel University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The number of autistic adults reached 5.4 million in the United States in 2017 and is projected to continue to rise, but evidence-based practices to optimize their health and well-being are limited and poor outcomes are common. This study will leverage existing infrastructure to finalize the development of a novel support service provided by peers with lived experience, incorporating input from autistic peer specialists, autism researchers, peer support researchers, and experts in peer support training. Investigators will then conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of the service while also examining the feasibility, acceptability, and implementation procedures in preparation for future large-scale testing and dissemination.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for English-speaking autistic adults aged 18-30 living in Philadelphia County, who want to improve their social or daily life skills and have a confirmed autism diagnosis. Participants must be able to give informed consent and express challenges in major life areas like social interactions or work.

Inclusion Criteria

I am between 18 and 30 years old.

Be able to provide informed consent

Have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder confirmed by a licensed healthcare provider

+4 more

Exclusion Criteria

I am able to understand and remember information to give informed consent.

Participant Groups

The CAPS program is being tested, which is peer support given by individuals with lived experience of autism. The study aims to develop this novel service further and assess its effectiveness through a pilot randomized controlled trial before larger-scale implementation.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: experimental armExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Individuals who receive CAPS

Group II: controlActive Control1 Intervention

Individuals who receive treatment as usual