Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorders

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorders Without Intellectual Disability: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT; Linehan, 1993) effectively diminishes emotion dysregulation and self-harm behaviors in a number of disorders. However, to our knowledge, no studies have investigated the efficacy of DBT to treat emotional dysregulation associated with self-harm and suicidal behaviors in adults with ASD without intellectual disability. This randomized controlled study trial aims to assess the efficacy of a 5-month DBT intervention in adults with ASD without intellectual disability who present with self-harm and/or suicidal behaviors.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥ 18 years old
• ASD diagnosis according to the DSM-5
• IQ ≥ 70
• Suicidal ideas, suicidal attempts and/or self-harm behaviors 6 months prior to the inclusion
• Able to understand and consent to the research aims
• Membership in a health insurance fund

Exclusion Criteria:

• complete hospitalization
• ongoing CBT or DBT
• past DBT
• schizophrenia disorders
• under guardianship