NCT06829264

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

A Pilot Trial of the Individualized Placement and Support Model in Autistic Adults in the Community

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (estimated)
• Sponsor: University of California, Davis · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 40 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

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.

Conditions

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Intellectual Disability

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Individualized 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.
BEHAVIORAL	Supportive 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.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-08-01
• Primary completion: 2026-12-01
• Completion: 2027-12-31
• First posted: 2025-02-17
• Last updated: 2026-01-28

Locations

2 sites across 1 country: United States