Grant: Doctoral Research Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Children and youth with autism often experience mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression and behavioural challenges. Between 40 - 70% of children with autism meet the criteria for at least one mental health disorder. Although there are therapy programs that have been found helpful in reducing these issues, such as cognitive behaviour therapy, children with autism across Canada often struggle to receive adequate mental health care. Further, parents of children with autism frequently report feeling dissatisfied and frustrated with their child's mental health services. Therapists sometimes note not feeling equipped in treating mental health problems in children with autism compared to children without autism, due to gaps in training and experience. In the US, studies have shown that therapists' attitudes, knowledge, experience and beliefs about treating autism can affect how they provide therapy for adults with autism. Little research has focused on how therapist characteristics can impact their delivery of effective mental health care for youth with autism across Canada. Additionally, few studies have examined the opinions of parents and children with autism in improving care. The purpose of my proposed research is to increase access to quality mental health services for children with autism by gathering information and recommendations from therapists, parents and children on the best ways for treatment success. There is a great need for access to effective mental health interventions for children with autism. This study will identify meaningful ways of enhancing mental health therapy and delivery from the perspectives of both users and providers of care. This research will inform the training and educational initiatives for mental health practitioners across Canada and positively impact how children with autism access and benefit from mental health treatment.