Use of non-directive therapy for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review |
| |
Authors: | Rachel Casper Netalie Shloim Judith Hebron |
| |
Institution: | 1. School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK;2. School of education, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK |
| |
Abstract: | In this review, we systematically explored research on the use of non-directive therapies with adolescents (aged 11–18 years) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). N = 12 studies were eligible for inclusion. The findings suggested four therapeutic components which were consistently present across all non-directive interventions and held similarities with play therapy principles: (a) collaboration between adolescent and therapist; (b) adolescent-led discussions; (c) reflection and reframing; and (d) encouragement and acceptance of the adolescent as they were. Therapeutic outcomes improved when the therapists had an understanding of ASD in order to tailor the intervention to the individual. Future primary research investigating the applicability of play therapy principles and limitations is discussed. |
| |
Keywords: | adolescents autism spectrum disorder non-directive therapy play therapy |
|
|