Autistic adults’ experiences of cognitive-behavioural group therapy for social anxiety: Relational experiences of participation / Bruna B. ROISENBERG in Autism, 30-1 (January 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-1 (January 2026) . - p.197-212 Titre : Autistic adults’ experiences of cognitive-behavioural group therapy for social anxiety: Relational experiences of participation Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Nina PERRY, Auteur ; Dorothy YU, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.197-212 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : mental health  peer connection  psychological intervention  thematic analysis  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety and significant life impacts from this anxiety on well-being and functioning. Although cognitive-behavioural therapy in group settings has been adapted for autistic populations, there is a paucity of research exploring how autistic individuals experience CBT interventions. This qualitative study investigated autistic adults’ experiences of a modified cognitive-behavioural therapy group programme for social anxiety. Twenty-seven autistic participants were recruited through clinical services and community outreach. Following the intervention, participants completed semi-structured individual interviews about their experience of the programme. Participants reported both therapeutic benefits and challenges following their participation. Themes included reflections on group dynamics, mental health impacts, social functioning and daily life applications of strategies. Peer connection emerged as a core facilitator of engagement, while structured strategies were credited with bolstering social confidence and self-awareness. However, challenges, such as sensory sensitivities, the role of previous therapeutic experiences and difficulties applying strategies beyond the therapy context, were also highlighted.Lay Abstract Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety. To support autistic people with social anxiety, we developed a group therapy programme, the Engage Program, an intervention designed specifically for autistic adults. Our study aimed to better understand what it is like for autistic adults to take part in group therapy and what aspects of the programme were most helpful, or not. The programme aimed to provide a safe space where participants could explore social interactions in a way that felt comfortable and authentic. Rather than encouraging people to hide or ‘camouflage’ their autistic traits, the programme focused on building confidence, self-understanding and meaningful connections with peers. Sessions included guided discussions, structured activities and shared experiences. We interviewed participants who had completed the group programme to hear directly from them about their experiences. Many said they felt less alone and more socially confident after taking part in the group. They appreciated connecting with others who understood their experiences, and they said this helped them feel more accepted and supported. They also reported that participating in the group helped them understand their social strengths and challenges more clearly. However, not everything worked for everyone. Some participants found aspects of the therapy challenging, especially if they had sensory sensitivities or difficult past experiences with therapy. In the future, we want to explore how to make group therapy more flexible and accessible, especially for those who may struggle in traditional settings. This research shows that group therapy can be a powerful way to support autistic adults, especially when it is designed with their needs and preferences in mind. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613251377930 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=578 [article] Autistic adults’ experiences of cognitive-behavioural group therapy for social anxiety: Relational experiences of participation [texte imprimé] / Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Nina PERRY, Auteur ; Dorothy YU, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur . - p.197-212. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-1 (January 2026) . - p.197-212 Mots-clés : mental health  peer connection  psychological intervention  thematic analysis  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety and significant life impacts from this anxiety on well-being and functioning. Although cognitive-behavioural therapy in group settings has been adapted for autistic populations, there is a paucity of research exploring how autistic individuals experience CBT interventions. This qualitative study investigated autistic adults’ experiences of a modified cognitive-behavioural therapy group programme for social anxiety. Twenty-seven autistic participants were recruited through clinical services and community outreach. Following the intervention, participants completed semi-structured individual interviews about their experience of the programme. Participants reported both therapeutic benefits and challenges following their participation. Themes included reflections on group dynamics, mental health impacts, social functioning and daily life applications of strategies. Peer connection emerged as a core facilitator of engagement, while structured strategies were credited with bolstering social confidence and self-awareness. However, challenges, such as sensory sensitivities, the role of previous therapeutic experiences and difficulties applying strategies beyond the therapy context, were also highlighted.Lay Abstract Autistic adults often report high levels of social anxiety. To support autistic people with social anxiety, we developed a group therapy programme, the Engage Program, an intervention designed specifically for autistic adults. Our study aimed to better understand what it is like for autistic adults to take part in group therapy and what aspects of the programme were most helpful, or not. The programme aimed to provide a safe space where participants could explore social interactions in a way that felt comfortable and authentic. Rather than encouraging people to hide or ‘camouflage’ their autistic traits, the programme focused on building confidence, self-understanding and meaningful connections with peers. Sessions included guided discussions, structured activities and shared experiences. We interviewed participants who had completed the group programme to hear directly from them about their experiences. Many said they felt less alone and more socially confident after taking part in the group. They appreciated connecting with others who understood their experiences, and they said this helped them feel more accepted and supported. They also reported that participating in the group helped them understand their social strengths and challenges more clearly. However, not everything worked for everyone. Some participants found aspects of the therapy challenging, especially if they had sensory sensitivities or difficult past experiences with therapy. In the future, we want to explore how to make group therapy more flexible and accessible, especially for those who may struggle in traditional settings. This research shows that group therapy can be a powerful way to support autistic adults, especially when it is designed with their needs and preferences in mind. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613251377930 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=578

Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Social Anxiety Does Not Increase Reports of Camouflaging Behavior in Autistic Adults: Results From an Exploratory Study / Bruna B. ROISENBERG in Autism Research, 18-9 (September 2025)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism Research > 18-9 (September 2025) . - p.1896-1909 Titre : Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Social Anxiety Does Not Increase Reports of Camouflaging Behavior in Autistic Adults: Results From an Exploratory Study Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1896-1909 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : anxiety  group therapy  mental health  psychological intervention  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : ABSTRACT Camouflaging has been defined as the masking or compensation of autistic traits during social interactions, often as a response to the stigma associated with autism and social expectations. Social anxiety has been closely linked to camouflaging, as autistic individuals may adopt camouflaging strategies to navigate social expectations and to reduce the risk of being negatively evaluated. Understanding the relationship between social anxiety and camouflaging in autism is essential for developing effective clinical interventions. This study investigated the effects of a modified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) group intervention, the Engage Program, on camouflaging and social anxiety. Specifically, the objective was to determine whether the CBT program would reduce social anxiety symptoms and if this reduction would also be associated with improvements in camouflaging behaviours. Seventy-one autistic adults participated in an 8-week modified CBT group intervention for social anxiety. Camouflaging behaviors were assessed using the CAT-Q scale, and social anxiety levels were measured using three established and validated self-report measures. Pre- and post-intervention scores were analyzed to determine change following treatment, and correlations between social anxiety and camouflaging measures were explored. As expected, the CBT intervention program significantly reduced social anxiety symptoms across all measures, showing moderate effect sizes from pre- to post-treatment. However, no significant changes in camouflaging behaviors were observed from pre- to post-treatment. Despite this, reductions in social anxiety symptoms were correlated with decreases in camouflaging behaviours, particularly for the compensation and assimilation subscales. Autistic participants who showed the most benefit from therapy on social anxiety measures also showed the greatest reduction in their camouflaging scores from pre- to post-treatment. These findings suggest that improvements in social anxiety symptoms from CBT are also associated with reductions in camouflaging. Importantly, CBT did not lead to an increase in camouflaging behaviors in autistic adults. This study supports the overall benefits of CBT for autistic adults and suggests a need for more randomized controlled studies. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.70103 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=568 [article] Cognitive-Behavior Therapy for Social Anxiety Does Not Increase Reports of Camouflaging Behavior in Autistic Adults: Results From an Exploratory Study [texte imprimé] / Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur . - p.1896-1909. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism Research > 18-9 (September 2025) . - p.1896-1909 Mots-clés : anxiety  group therapy  mental health  psychological intervention  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : ABSTRACT Camouflaging has been defined as the masking or compensation of autistic traits during social interactions, often as a response to the stigma associated with autism and social expectations. Social anxiety has been closely linked to camouflaging, as autistic individuals may adopt camouflaging strategies to navigate social expectations and to reduce the risk of being negatively evaluated. Understanding the relationship between social anxiety and camouflaging in autism is essential for developing effective clinical interventions. This study investigated the effects of a modified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) group intervention, the Engage Program, on camouflaging and social anxiety. Specifically, the objective was to determine whether the CBT program would reduce social anxiety symptoms and if this reduction would also be associated with improvements in camouflaging behaviours. Seventy-one autistic adults participated in an 8-week modified CBT group intervention for social anxiety. Camouflaging behaviors were assessed using the CAT-Q scale, and social anxiety levels were measured using three established and validated self-report measures. Pre- and post-intervention scores were analyzed to determine change following treatment, and correlations between social anxiety and camouflaging measures were explored. As expected, the CBT intervention program significantly reduced social anxiety symptoms across all measures, showing moderate effect sizes from pre- to post-treatment. However, no significant changes in camouflaging behaviors were observed from pre- to post-treatment. Despite this, reductions in social anxiety symptoms were correlated with decreases in camouflaging behaviours, particularly for the compensation and assimilation subscales. Autistic participants who showed the most benefit from therapy on social anxiety measures also showed the greatest reduction in their camouflaging scores from pre- to post-treatment. These findings suggest that improvements in social anxiety symptoms from CBT are also associated with reductions in camouflaging. Importantly, CBT did not lead to an increase in camouflaging behaviors in autistic adults. This study supports the overall benefits of CBT for autistic adults and suggests a need for more randomized controlled studies. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.70103 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=568

Does Camouflaging Predict Functioning, Distress, and Quality of Life for Autistic Adults? / Bruna B. ROISENBERG in Autism Research, 19-4 (April 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism Research > 19-4 (April 2026) . - e70199 Titre : Does Camouflaging Predict Functioning, Distress, and Quality of Life for Autistic Adults? Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur Article en page(s) : e70199 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : adults  anxiety  autism  depression  psychiatry  social anxiety Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : ABSTRACT It has been proposed that autistic individuals adopt camouflaging strategies to mask their autistic traits and conform to social norms, and that these camouflaging strategies have been linked to adverse mental health outcomes. This study examined whether camouflaging, measured by the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), predicted functioning, distress, and quality of life beyond standard clinical measures of social responsiveness and social anxiety. We analysed data from 113 autistic adults experiencing social anxiety who expressed interest in anxiety interventions. Hierarchical regression analyses assessed the unique contribution of camouflaging after accounting for social responsiveness and social anxiety. Results indicated that social responsiveness and social anxiety significantly predicted depression, psychological distress, and disability, whereas camouflaging did not explain additional variance in these outcomes. Although camouflaging correlated with poorer mental health and reduced quality of life, it did not independently predict these outcomes beyond social anxiety and responsiveness. These findings suggest current camouflaging measures may capture overlapping constructs, highlighting the need for more precise conceptualization and measurement tools. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.70199 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585 [article] Does Camouflaging Predict Functioning, Distress, and Quality of Life for Autistic Adults? [texte imprimé] / Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur . - e70199. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism Research > 19-4 (April 2026) . - e70199 Mots-clés : adults  anxiety  autism  depression  psychiatry  social anxiety Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : ABSTRACT It has been proposed that autistic individuals adopt camouflaging strategies to mask their autistic traits and conform to social norms, and that these camouflaging strategies have been linked to adverse mental health outcomes. This study examined whether camouflaging, measured by the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), predicted functioning, distress, and quality of life beyond standard clinical measures of social responsiveness and social anxiety. We analysed data from 113 autistic adults experiencing social anxiety who expressed interest in anxiety interventions. Hierarchical regression analyses assessed the unique contribution of camouflaging after accounting for social responsiveness and social anxiety. Results indicated that social responsiveness and social anxiety significantly predicted depression, psychological distress, and disability, whereas camouflaging did not explain additional variance in these outcomes. Although camouflaging correlated with poorer mental health and reduced quality of life, it did not independently predict these outcomes beyond social anxiety and responsiveness. These findings suggest current camouflaging measures may capture overlapping constructs, highlighting the need for more precise conceptualization and measurement tools. En ligne : https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.70199 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585

A qualitative evaluation of cognitive-behavioural therapy components for social anxiety in autistic adults: Lived experiences from a modified group program / Bruna B. ROISENBERG in Autism, 30-5 (May 2026)  

Public ISBD [article]  inAutism > 30-5 (May 2026) . - p.1147-1164 Titre : A qualitative evaluation of cognitive-behavioural therapy components for social anxiety in autistic adults: Lived experiences from a modified group program Type de document : texte imprimé Auteurs : Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Nina PERRY, Auteur ; Dorothy YU, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur Article en page(s) : p.1147-1164 Langues : Anglais (eng) Mots-clés : anxiety  group therapy  mental health  psychological intervention  qualitative methodologies  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for social anxiety. However, despite the high prevalence of social anxiety among autistic adults, much less is known about how autistic people experience each CBT component used in treatment. This qualitative study explores autistic adults’ perspectives on a modified cognitive-behaviour therapy group programme for social anxiety, focusing on the perceived effectiveness of CBT components and the identification of needed modifications. Twenty-seven participants who completed the intervention took part in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified core themes related to therapeutic impact (application of CBT group strategies) and participant experiences (suggestions for future iterations of social groups). Overall, exposure tasks were viewed as helpful in reducing anxiety, particularly when structured and predictable. Cognitive restructuring was often experienced as effective; however, its impact was sometimes limited by persistent and deeply held core beliefs and past negative experiences. Social strategies and anxiety management skills were appreciated for their structured format and educational elements, but generalizability was sometimes raised as a limitation. Participants also recommended additional adaptations, including flexibility in content delivery and modifications to the physical environment. Findings highlight overall support of cognitive-therapy components for reducing social anxiety in adults, but also benefit to tailoring CBT approaches to theneeds of autistic adults. Results from this study offer practical guidance from autistic people to enhance the acceptability and effectiveness of future CBT interventions.Lay abstract Many autistic adults experience social anxiety, making everyday interactions feel stressful or overwhelming. To help with this, clinical researchers developed a group therapy programme based on cognitive-behaviour therapy adapted for autistic adults. While cognitive-behaviour therapy is commonly used to treat anxiety, there has been relatively little research into how autistic people experience group-based versions of this therapy. This study aimed to understand how participants felt about the programme and how it could be improved. The intervention included eight group sessions where participants learned about social anxiety and autism, social strategies and took part in guided activities to build confidence. The programme encouraged a supportive environment where autistic individuals could safely try out new ways of connecting with others without feeling pressure to hide who they are. To understand how helpful the programme was, researchers interviewed participants about their experiences. Many said the programme helped them feel more confident and less anxious in social situations. For example, they found role-playing in a safe group setting especially useful. Participants also appreciated that the therapy was adapted to suit their needs. However, the study also highlighted some areas for improvement. Some participants found parts of the programme challenging, especially unstructured activities or settings. Others suggested the programme could be more flexible, offer clearer instructions or be better prepared for people who had past negative experiences with therapy. These early findings suggest that cognitive-behaviour therapy can be effective when thoughtfully adapted for autistic adults. This work helps lay the foundation for more inclusive, autism-informed mental health services that support social confidence in a way that feels safe and empowering. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261424830 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585 [article] A qualitative evaluation of cognitive-behavioural therapy components for social anxiety in autistic adults: Lived experiences from a modified group program [texte imprimé] / Bruna B. ROISENBERG, Auteur ; Kelsie A. BOULTON, Auteur ; Emma E. THOMAS, Auteur ; Nina PERRY, Auteur ; Dorothy YU, Auteur ; Adam J. GUASTELLA, Auteur . - p.1147-1164. Langues : Anglais (eng) in Autism > 30-5 (May 2026) . - p.1147-1164 Mots-clés : anxiety  group therapy  mental health  psychological intervention  qualitative methodologies  treatment Index. décimale : PER Périodiques Résumé : Cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for social anxiety. However, despite the high prevalence of social anxiety among autistic adults, much less is known about how autistic people experience each CBT component used in treatment. This qualitative study explores autistic adults’ perspectives on a modified cognitive-behaviour therapy group programme for social anxiety, focusing on the perceived effectiveness of CBT components and the identification of needed modifications. Twenty-seven participants who completed the intervention took part in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified core themes related to therapeutic impact (application of CBT group strategies) and participant experiences (suggestions for future iterations of social groups). Overall, exposure tasks were viewed as helpful in reducing anxiety, particularly when structured and predictable. Cognitive restructuring was often experienced as effective; however, its impact was sometimes limited by persistent and deeply held core beliefs and past negative experiences. Social strategies and anxiety management skills were appreciated for their structured format and educational elements, but generalizability was sometimes raised as a limitation. Participants also recommended additional adaptations, including flexibility in content delivery and modifications to the physical environment. Findings highlight overall support of cognitive-therapy components for reducing social anxiety in adults, but also benefit to tailoring CBT approaches to theneeds of autistic adults. Results from this study offer practical guidance from autistic people to enhance the acceptability and effectiveness of future CBT interventions.Lay abstract Many autistic adults experience social anxiety, making everyday interactions feel stressful or overwhelming. To help with this, clinical researchers developed a group therapy programme based on cognitive-behaviour therapy adapted for autistic adults. While cognitive-behaviour therapy is commonly used to treat anxiety, there has been relatively little research into how autistic people experience group-based versions of this therapy. This study aimed to understand how participants felt about the programme and how it could be improved. The intervention included eight group sessions where participants learned about social anxiety and autism, social strategies and took part in guided activities to build confidence. The programme encouraged a supportive environment where autistic individuals could safely try out new ways of connecting with others without feeling pressure to hide who they are. To understand how helpful the programme was, researchers interviewed participants about their experiences. Many said the programme helped them feel more confident and less anxious in social situations. For example, they found role-playing in a safe group setting especially useful. Participants also appreciated that the therapy was adapted to suit their needs. However, the study also highlighted some areas for improvement. Some participants found parts of the programme challenging, especially unstructured activities or settings. Others suggested the programme could be more flexible, offer clearer instructions or be better prepared for people who had past negative experiences with therapy. These early findings suggest that cognitive-behaviour therapy can be effective when thoughtfully adapted for autistic adults. This work helps lay the foundation for more inclusive, autism-informed mental health services that support social confidence in a way that feels safe and empowering. En ligne : https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/13623613261424830 Permalink : https://www.cra-rhone-alpes.org/cid/opac_css/index.php?lvl=notice_display&id=585

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