Comparing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Versus Mindfulness-Based Therapy for Autistic Adults

"The UP incorporates common principles among empirically supported CBT protocols, including restructuring maladaptive cognitions, changing maladaptive behaviors, preventing emotion avoidance, and incorporating exposure. It consists of five core treatment modules:~1. emotion awareness,~2. cognitive appraisal \& reappraisal,~3. emotion avoidance \& emotion-driven behaviors,~4. awareness and tolerance of emotion-related physical sensations, \&~5. interoceptive and situational emotion-focused exposures.~There are two introductory modules on enhancing motivation and understanding of emotional experiences. A final module is on maintenance and relapse prevention. Modules are delivered at a flexible pace and some patients may spend multiple sessions on the same module. The total number of sessions varies from patient to patient, generally ranging from 12-18 sessions (50-60 minutes) delivered weekly. All sessions are 1:1 via telehealth."

The study MBCT protocol is a 9-week program (90-120 minute sessions) with home-based practice between sessions. MBCT sessions incorporate formal mindfulness meditation practices such as sitting meditation, mindful movement, and body scan (with a focus on mindful and non-judgmental attention to sensations, thoughts, and feelings), as well as informal practices and homework to integrate mindful awareness into everyday life, such as mindful eating, mindful walking, and mindful breathing. All sessions are 1:1 via telehealth.