A Pilot Trial of the Individualized Placement and Support Model in Autistic Adults in the Community
University of California, Davis
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.
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…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
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 18-40 years. * Minimum 4th-grade reading level (approximately mild ID). * Not currently employed but seeking employment. Exclusion Criteria: \- Not interested in employment.
Interventions
- BehavioralIndividualized Placement and Support Model
The Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) model is an evidence-based approach to supported employment designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve and maintain competitive integrated employment (CIE). IPS emphasizes person-centered planning, rapid engagement, and focusing on individual strengths and preferences. Key features include prioritizing CIE, eligibility based on the desire to work, integration of employment services with mental health support, rapid job searches, tailored job development, and time-unlimited, individualized support. IPS also provides benefits counseling to help participants manage employment while maintaining government benefits. For this study, IPS is adapted to meet the needs of autistic individuals by enhancing provider training and family involvement to improve outcomes.
- BehavioralSupportive Employment Intervention
This intervention consists of a weekly series of sessions designed for adult consumers, incorporating supportive elements inspired by the ACCESS (Acquiring Career, Coping, Executive, and Social Skills) program developed at the UC Davis MIND Institute. The sessions will provide time to discuss consumer experiences, give general guidance and some training in employment-related skills, including resume building, job interviewing, and strategies for giving and receiving feedback in the workplace.
Locations (2)
- University of California, Davis MIND InstituteSacramento, California
- University of California, Davis MIND InstituteSacramento, California