CBT for Children and Adolescents with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders

This much-needed book fills a void. It covers CBT principles, research, program planning, interventions and modifications, and myriad related topics. Chapters provide examples of instructional programs that focus on CBT and discuss the role of parents/caregivers in using CBT. While the term 'must have' is overused, I feel it accurately describes this well-written book. The psychosocial approach has the potential to change the lives of many on the autism spectrum. --Brenda Smith Myles, PhD, State and National Partnerships, Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI)

Scarpa, White, and Attwood have done a brilliant job of assembling a team of authors who could together construct this timely resource. Each contributor successfully bridges the gap between the literature on CBT for neurotypical children/adolescents and the literature on ASD. The volume informs both practitioners and researchers who are trying to understand and serve these unique youngsters. It is a complete, invaluable tool for anyone seeking to improve the lives of young people on the spectrum and prepare them to be healthy and productive adults. --Valerie L. Gaus, PhD, private practice, Huntington, New York

An extremely valuable book for clinicians, educators, and researchers. It fills a tremendous need for comprehensive information about empirically validated treatments that can address anxiety and the social challenges that many children and adolescents with ASD face. By describing both the treatment approaches and the science behind them, the volume provides practical information that can be useful today, while also setting the stage for future research. --Geraldine Dawson, PhD, Chief Science Officer, Autism Speaks; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

A truly wonderful addition to the literature. Practical, well written, and easy to use, this book will be a standard for years to come. --Fred R. Volkmar, MD, Irving B. Harris Professor and Director, Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine

There is much to like about this book. The content is quite easy to follow, and the information will be welcomed by readers who are relatively unfamiliar with CBT and its application to youths with high-functioning ASD. Each chapter provides a thorough understanding of the issues associated with ASD, such as difficulties related to anxiety, social interactions, and social competence, before describing how CBT techniques can be modified to address these issues. The inclusion of case studies is a particular strength of the book, and many chapters provide session-by-session content that many clinicians will find helpful in their work with youths with high-functioning ASD....[A] recommended resource for readers who are interested in getting a quick overview of promising CBTs for youths with high-functioning ASD. --PsycCRITIQUES