Testing an Evidence-Based Supported Employment Model in Autistic Young Adults

Not Applicable

Not yet recruiting

• Conditions: Autism Spectrum Disorder; Intellectual Disability

• Registration Number: NCT06829264
• Lead Sponsor: University of California, Davis

Brief Summary

This study aims to enhance employment outcomes for young adults with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through the implementation of an evidence-based supported employment model known as Individual Placement and Support for Autism (IPS-AUT). The study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of IPS-AUT in promoting Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE). The trial will involve partnerships with supported employment agencies, training providers in IPS-AUT, and assessing employment outcomes and implementation factors. The ultimate goal is to create a scalable, evidence-based employment support model for individuals with autism.

Detailed Description

This study builds on prior research and pilot testing of IPS in the autism and IDD community by implementing a 12-month Hybrid Type 1 trial to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of IPS-AUT. The current study will include three primary aims:

Consumer Support Toolbox Development: Using data from previous focus groups, researchers will develop and test a Consumer Support Toolbox (CST) to align IPS services with autistic consumer needs.

IPS-AUT Implementation and Outcomes Evaluation: A 12-month Hybrid Type 1 trial will assess feasibility, acceptability, fidelity to IPS standards, and employment outcomes. The study aims for a minimum 50% success rate in Competitive Integrated Employment and at least 75% feasibility and acceptability.

Mediators of Employment Outcomes: Researchers will explore the role of parent/carer engagement and work-related social cognition in improving employment success.

This trial is designed to prepare for a larger R01-funded study by refining implementation strategies and addressing key barriers. Participants will include young adults with autism, their employment providers, and caregivers, with data collected through surveys, focus groups, interviews, and standardized assessments. The study is funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and conducted in collaboration with supported employment agencies in California.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-01
• Study First Submitted: 2025-01-24
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-02-10
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-02-10
• Study First Posted: 2025-02-17
• Last Update Posted: 2025-02-17
• Study Start: 2025-04
• Primary Completion: 2026-12
• Study Completion: 2027-12-31

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: NOT_YET_RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 60

Inclusion Criteria

California supported employment agency clients meeting the following criteria:

• Community diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, demonstrated by a letter from a healthcare provider, psychologist, other mental health professional, Regional Center representative, or school psychologist.
• Aged 21-40 years.
• Minimum 4th-grade reading level (approximately mild ID).
• Not currently employed but seeking employment.

Exclusion Criteria

• Not interested in employment.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Feasibility of IPS Implementation	18 months	Measure: Agency feasibility ratings and IPS fidelity reviews. Assessment Method: Trained IPS fidelity reviews will assess fidelity using the IPS Fidelity Scale (Bond et al., 2012) at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Additionally, feasibility will be assessed through participant, parent, and provider ratings on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = not feasible at all, 5 = highly feasible).; Expect outcome: Achieve good fidelity at the 12-month fidelity review. Achieve at least 75% feasibility.
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) Outcomes	18 months	Measure: CIE attainment and retention Assessment Method: Monthly reports on employment status will be collected via phone or in person meetings with providers. Employment status will be categorized as "Employed in CIE," "Not Employed," or "Transitioned Out of CIE." Retention will be defined as maintaining continuous employment for at least six months.; Expect outcome: Minimum of 50% CIE success.
Acceptability of IPS Implementation	18 months	Measure: Participant, parent, and provider satisfaction. Assessment Method: Surveys using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = not satisfied at all, 5 = very satisfied) to assess satisfaction with IPS services and overall perceived value of the intervention.; Expect outcome: Achieve at least 75% acceptability.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

University of California, Davis MIND Institute; 🇺🇸 Sacramento, California, United States