Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders: Modification trends

Anxiety disorders have been found to be highly comorbid with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Even so, the identification and dissemination of empirically supported treatments for anxiety in adults or children who have ASD has lagged behind the larger evidence-based trend. This review examines the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy as a treatment for anxiety in children who have an ASD and delineates and summarizes the trends in modifying efficacious cognitive-behavioral therapies for anxiety for use with those having an ASD. Limitations and recommendations for future research toward a standardized treatment model for anxiety in children are discussed.