Dialectical behaviour therapy for people with autism who struggle with emotions and self-harm
Tests dialectical behaviour therapy for managing emotions in people with autism.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for People With Autism: A Multiple Baseline Single Case Design
Key facts
- Where
- Leeuwarden, NetherlandsSee the site
Where in Netherlands
- GGZ FrieslandLeeuwarden, NetherlandsTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- GGZ Friesland
- Trial code
- NCT07786883
- Record updated
- 26 August 2026
- Original description
The goal of this experimental study is to test the effectiveness of Dialectic Behavioural Therapy in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The aim questions are:Read full original descriptionShow less
Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for People With Autism, Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Self-harm Behaviour: A Multiple Baseline Single Case Design
The goal of this experimental study is to test the effectiveness of Dialectic Behavioural Therapy in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The aim questions are:
1. What is the effect of DBT on maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and emotional well-being in patients with ASD? 2. Is the use of DBT skills associated with a reduction in maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and an increase of emotional well-being over time? 3. What are the dynamics over time between maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, emotional well-being and sensory overload?
Participants will:
* Follow DBT of 10 months * Keep a diary on their urge of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and well-being
Inclusion: DSM-5 diagnosis of ASD; Sufficient understanding, as demonstrated in conversation with intake therapist; Explicit behavioural problems, which, according to patient and therapist, lead to functional problems (like suicidal ideation, auto mutilation, emotional outburst and interpersonal conflicts); BMI > 17; Commitment to the therapy and shared goals as assessed by intake therapist.
Exclusion: Presence of a trauma-related disorder that is likely to interfere with the ability to engage effectively in DBT or that requires specialized trauma-focused treatment prior to or alongside DBT as assessed by intake team; Diagnosis of psychotic disorder if not stable; Diagnosed with bipolar disorder; Antisocial behaviour which interrupts the group climate; Excessive dependency on substances for which no parallel appropriate policy can be made.