5 - (OP9) Tailoring Therapy for Autistic Clients: The ASCENT Model

Autistic people experience chronic traumatic invalidation in a society whose demands are not aligned with their needs, along with high levels of anxiety, depression, chronic emotion dysregulation, suicidality, self-harm, and other mental health concerns. Recent research has begun to explore both the unique therapeutic needs of Autistic clients and how to most effectively tailor DBT, CBT, and other psychotherapies to increase effectiveness and avoid unintentional harm. The authors developed the ASCENT model based on research, clinical, and lived experience. It is based on traits of Autistic clients and guides adjustments to typical therapy protocols needed to make therapies more effective and affirming for them. This model proposes supporting Autistic clients in Autonomous and Affirming goal setting (A), adapting for Autistic differences in Sensory processing, Stimming, Structure, Special interests (S), Communication (C), and Executive functioning (E), practicing with Neurohumility (N), and being Trauma informed (T). Initial research findings support these recommendations. This presentation describes the ASCENT model and provides examples of how the model can be applied to increase the effectiveness of psychotherapy for Autistic clients.