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Application of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents to Autistic Youth: A Case Study
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Application of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents to Autistic Youth: A Case Study

Kenna Hollander, Lauren Milgram and Jill Ehrenreich-May
Clinical case studies
2026-01-22

Abstract

autism spectrum disorder cognitive-behavioral therapy emotional disorders transdiagnostic treatment adaptations unified protocol

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently presents alongside emotional disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression) in youth. Existing treatments for youth with ASD most often focus on social communication, behavior management, and daily living skills, with generally less focus placed on emotional symptoms. This paper describes the theoretical rationale for and application of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment for Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A) to youth with ASD. A case example is presented to highlight adaptations to the UP-A and illustrate the impact of these adaptations on treatment engagement, process, and outcomes. The case reviewed in this study features an adolescent male presenting with generalized anxiety disorder and persistent depressive disorder with a current major depressive episode. His comorbid ASD informed the adaptations to the UP-A that are discussed throughout. Considerations for case conceptualization, treatment planning, and progress monitoring during UP-A treatment are also reviewed.

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Application of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents to Autistic Youth: A Case Study763.95 kBDownloadView
Open Access CC BY-NC V4.0
url
https://doi.org/10.1177/15346501261417689View
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Citation topics
1 Clinical & Life Sciences
1.21 Psychiatry
1.21.1431 Borderline Personality Disorder
Web Of Science research areas
Psychiatry
Psychology, Clinical
ESI research areas
Psychiatry/Psychology

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