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.
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 Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
60
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.
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.
University of California, Davis MIND Institute
Sacramento, California, United States
Feasibility of IPS Implementation
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.
Time frame: 18 months
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) Attainment
Measure: CIE attainment log Assessment Method: Monthly reports on employment status will be collected via phone or in virtual meetings with providers. Employment status will be categorized as "Employed in CIE," "Not Employed," or "Transitioned Out of CIE." Expect outcome: Minimum of 50% CIE attainment success.
Time frame: 18 months
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) Retention
Measure: CIE retention log Assessment Method: Monthly reports on employment status will be collected via phone or in virtual meetings with providers. Employment status will be verified as "Employed in CIE," "Not Employed," or "Transitioned Out of CIE." Expect outcome: Minimum of 50% CIE retention.
Time frame: 18 months
Acceptability of IPS Implementation
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.
Time frame: 18 months
Parent/Carer Engagement
Measure: Family Engagement Survey Assessment Method: Monthly surveys will be collected via phone or online to collect information on family involvement and satisfaction with the services their family member is receiving. Family members/carers will rate their involvement and satisfaction on a Likert scale survey.
Time frame: 18 months
Work-Related Social Cognition
Work-related social cognition is evaluated to understand its impact on functional outcomes such as planning, problem-solving, and attention, which are critical to employment success. Assessment Method: The Adult Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-2A) will be used to measure these cognitive abilities.
Time frame: 18 months
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