Brief summary
This study evaluates a digital mental health intervention (DMHI) grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) tailored for autistic adults. Using a mixed-methods approach and an open trial design, the intervention aimed to enhance subjective wellbeing, quality of life, and other psychological outcomes. The intervention consisted of six sessions focusing on skills training. While some improvements were observed at post-test, not all were sustained at follow-up.
Key findings
Preliminary efficacy of the DMHI: The intervention showed initial improvements in subjective wellbeing and quality of life at post-test. However, subjective wellbeing improvements were not maintained at the 10-week follow-up, whereas quality of life gains were sustained.
Secondary outcomes: Improvements in psychological flexibility and reductions in psychological distress were noted, with most of these changes persisting at follow-up.
Qualitative insights: Participants reported enhanced individual and relational wellbeing, providing further evidence of the intervention’s positive impact.
Practice recommendations
Incorporate ACT-based interventions: Mental health practitioners who work with autistic adults may consider using ACT-based DMHIs as a scalable and accessible tool to address wellbeing and quality of life issues.
Focus on sustainability: Efforts should be made to explore strategies that maintain gains in subjective wellbeing beyond the immediate post-intervention period. This might include booster sessions or supplementary resources to reinforce skills.
Consider co-creation: The success of this intervention highlights the importance of co-developing interventions with the target population to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
Reference
Aller, T. B., Kelley, H. H., Klimczak, K. S., Covington, B. P., & Levin, M. E. (2026). A longitudinal pilot evaluation of valued living: An acceptance and commitment therapy-based digital mental health intervention for autistic adults. Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science, 39.
View summary and access on ACBS website
