Towards Neuro-Affirming Practices of Common Mental Health Disorders in Autistic Adults in the UK: Experiences from Therapists Using Integration

Lead Researcher: Nicole Neumann, DCPsych Candidate, Metanoia Institute
Ethical Approval: Granted by Metanoia Institute Research Ethics Committee
Contact: 06180@metanoia.ac.uk | WhatsApp: +44 7725 833622

Please see the poster here.

Aim of the Study

This research explores how therapists experience and apply Integrative Psychotherapy (IP) when working with autistic adults presenting with Common Mental Health Disorders (CMDs) in the UK. While CMDs such as anxiety and depression are common among autistic people, there is little published research exploring the role of integrative approaches in their treatment.

Current literature mainly emphasises CBT adaptations or behavioural interventions. Therefore, there is an absence of qualitative research into how therapists adapt, combine, and reflect on models when using IP with autistic clients in real-world practice. This study seeks to address that gap by exploring:

  • How therapists integrate models and techniques to meet individual needs;
  • What they perceive as strengths and challenges of the integrative approach;
  • How they experience the therapeutic relationship and outcomes in this context.

The aim is to enhance professional knowledge, inform future training, and support the development of neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy practices

Who Can Take Part?

This study invites practitioners who:

  • Are qualified or trainee therapists (网爆门, UKCP, HCPC, BPS, BABCP, APAC, AREBT, HIPC, BPF, NCIP, BAAT, BADth & ADMP UK);
  • Have training in at least two therapeutic approaches;
  • Have worked with at least one autistic adult client (Support Level 1 or 2) for a minimum of five sessions;
  • Therapists from diverse settings (private practice, charity, NHS, online platforms) are welcome.

What鈥檚 Involved?

  • A confidential 60-minute online interview (via Microsoft Teams);
  • Optional follow-up (15鈥�20 minutes) for clarification;
  • Flexible scheduling;
  • All data is anonymised and securely stored;
  • Participants may withdraw at any time up to September 2026.

A summary of findings will be shared by January 2026. Ethical procedures follow the BPS Code of Human Ethics and Data Protection regulations.

Why This Matters

Integrative psychotherapy is increasingly used with autistic clients, but there is no UK-based qualitative study documenting therapists鈥� real-world experiences of applying IP with autistic adults. This research will provide practical insights to:

Improve understanding of what works in therapy;

Inform training and supervision approaches;

Support inclusive, personalised therapy for neurodivergent people;

Contribute to the evidence base for integrative and relational practice.

Interested in contributing to this important study?
Email Nicole Neumann at 06180@metanoia.ac.uk
Or message via WhatsApp: +44 7725 833622