Supported Employment for Autism

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byMarjorie Solomon, PhD, MBA

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of California, Davis

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This study aims to enhance employment outcomes for young adults with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through the implementation of an evidence-based supported employment model known as Individual Placement and Support for Autism (IPS-AUT). The study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of IPS-AUT in promoting Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE). The trial will involve partnerships with supported employment agencies, training providers in IPS-AUT, and assessing employment outcomes and implementation factors. The ultimate goal is to create a scalable, evidence-based employment support model for individuals with autism.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for young adults aged 21-40 in California with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities who are not currently employed but seeking work. They must have a community diagnosis of autism, be able to read at a minimum 4th-grade level, and be clients of supported employment agencies.

Inclusion Criteria

I am between 21 and 40 years old.

California supported employment agency clients meeting the following criteria:

Minimum 4th-grade reading level (approximately mild ID)

+2 more

Exclusion Criteria

Not interested in employment

Participant Groups

The study tests the Individual Placement and Support Model (IPS-AUT) aimed at improving job outcomes for autistic individuals. It involves training providers in IPS-AUT, partnering with employment agencies, and measuring how well it helps participants get competitive jobs.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Treatment Group - Agencies Receiving IPSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participating agencies will be randomized, with 2/3 of agencies receiving IPS first. The estimated total number of agencies = 6 (each referring 10 consumers), meaning that 4 agencies (40 clients) would be assigned to receive IPS training first. These agencies will be expected to deliver IPS services for a duration of 12 months.

Group II: Control Group - Agencies Receiving Supportive Employment InterventionActive Control1 Intervention

One third of the agencies (approximately 2 agencies and 20 consumers) will be assigned to the wait-list control group will continue to provide their usual services during the first 12 months. In addition, clients of these agencies will be offered a Supportive Employment Intervention, which includes weekly sessions offering support with some help on employment-related skills such as resume building, job interviewing, and workplace communication strategies.