The Effectiveness of an Autistic-delivered Peer-support Intervention for Autistic Adults: Community Autism Peer Specialist (CAPS) Program

The number of autistic adults reached 5.4 million in the United States in 2017 and is projected to continue to rise, but evidence-based practices to optimize their health and well-being are limited and poor outcomes are common. This study will leverage existing infrastructure to finalize the development of a novel support service provided by peers with lived experience, incorporating input from autistic peer specialists, autism researchers, peer support researchers, and experts in peer support training. Investigators will then conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of the service while also examining the feasibility, acceptability, and implementation procedures in preparation for future large-scale testing and dissemination.

Inclusion Criteria:18-30 years oldHave a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder that is confirmed by a licensed healthcare providerSelf-reported challenges in one or more major life areas (i.e., social, school, work, self-maintenance)Express a desire to enhance functioning in one of these areasReside in Philadelphia CountyBe able to communicate in English (i.e., understand at a basic conversational level and communicate verbally or using technology or other approaches). This is required because the intervention will be delivered in English, and the interactions between the peer specialists and participants will be in English.Be able to provide informed consentExclusion Criteria:Unable to provide informed consent, as assessed by research staff using an active recall method.