Otizm Spektrum Bozukluğu Olan Yetişkinlerde Anksiyete ve Depresyon Tedavisinde Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi Uygulamalarının Etkililiği: Sistematik Bir Derleme
The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interventions in the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Summary/Abstract: Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at significantly higher risk for comorbid mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression compared to the general population. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions in the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults diagnosed with ASD. Studies published between 2010 and 2025 were searched across PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases; randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and pretest-posttest control group designs were included. The reviewed studies reveal that CBT produces significant improvements with moderate to large effect sizes in reducing anxiety symptoms in adults with ASD. For depression symptoms, small to moderate effect sizes have been reported. ASD-specific adaptations to CBT—including the use of visual supports, preference for concrete and structured materials, integration of special interests, flexibility in session duration, and consideration of sensory sensitivities—positively influence treatment outcomes. However, methodological limitations, small sample sizes, heterogeneous study designs, and insufficient long-term follow-up data are noteworthy. In conclusion, adapted CBT programs represent a promising intervention approach for the treatment of anxiety and depression in adults with ASD; nevertheless, larger-scale, multi-center randomized controlled trials are needed.

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