Try group therapy designed for teens with Fragile X or autism

Recruiting

What is this trial?

This trial is testing a type of group therapy called Cooperative Group Therapy (or group cognitive-behavioral therapy) for teenagers aged 13–19 with either Fragile X syndrome or autism spectrum disorder. The therapy focuses on helping young people improve their social skills, communication, and ability to manage daily activities. Researchers believe this treatment approach may help teenagers become more independent and improve their quality of life.

Many teenagers with Fragile X syndrome or autism struggle with social interactions, communication, and managing everyday tasks—which can limit their independence as they grow up. While research shows that group therapy can help people with autism, very few studies have been done in Europe, and almost no research has tested this approach specifically in people with Fragile X syndrome.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 13 and 19 years old
you have been diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome (confirmed by genetic testing) or autism spectrum disorder (confirmed by specific diagnostic interviews)
you can speak in full sentences and communicate at a level compatible with a group setting
you have some difficulty managing daily activities (measured as adaptive functioning below a certain threshold)
your parents or guardians are willing to give informed consent for you to participate

You likely don't qualify if…

you have severe vision or hearing loss
you have epilepsy or a history of seizures that require medication
you are currently in another non-medication therapy program
your medications were recently changed (within the last 3 months)
you have significant behavioral or medical issues that would make it difficult to participate safely in a group

What participation looks like

You would attend group therapy sessions with other teenagers who have the same condition. The study is divided into two phases: some participants start therapy right away, while others join a waiting list and begin therapy later. During the therapy sessions, you and the group would work on improving social skills, communication, and independence through structured exercises and lessons. Your parents or guardians would need to provide consent and may be asked to support your participation throughout the program.

Group therapy to help teens with Fragile X and autism

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)