Note: This account only posts external research that has been approved by the NAS research team. The National Autistic Society's Evidence and Research team are also partnering on this particular study.
What is the research about?
We are exploring the access and experiences of autistic adults to NHS Talking Therapies for Anxiety and Depression. NHS Talking Therapies (sometimes called IAPT) are NHS services that offer psychological therapies for anxiety and depression, usually after a self-referral or referral from a GP (or a mental health professional). We are looking to understand the perspectives of autistic adults on the factors that may help or hinder access to talking therapy services. We are also looking to understand whether this is influenced by aspects of identity such as sex/gender, age and ethnicity.
This research is being carried out by a team of researchers at University College London, led by Professor Joshua Stott and Dr Amber John.
Who can participate?
You can take part in this study if you:
- Are able to attend an online interview via Microsoft Teams or Zoom
- Have a diagnosis or think you are autistic (self-identify)
- Have ever been referred to psychological therapy services
- Are currently living in the UK
- Are aged 18 or over
What does the research involve?
- A short online survey
- 60–90-minute video interview. Communication preferences and adjustments are very welcome, including shorter sessions, keeping cameras off, or using the chat function.
- £75 in shopping vouchers via email in appreciation of your involvement, covering preparation, the interview, and any follow-up feedback.
When is it happening?
We will be recruiting from January 2026 continuing through to summer 2026.
I’d like to take part, what do I do next?
If you are interested in taking part, please complete our brief expression of interest form here: https://uclpsych.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6lK1AwTl4J1WZz8
If you have any questions, please email our research team at inclusivetalk@ucl.ac.uk.