Abstract
Fears and phobias are a common mental health concern for youth, and particularly for autistic youth. The following review briefly summarizes the extant literature on specific phobias and specific phobias in autistic youth. The evidence base is briefly highlighted pointing to the strong base behind behavioral and cognitive-behavioral treatments and techniques. A broad discussion of key evidence-based treatment findings is presented, leading up to the impactful work of Thomas H. Ollendick in researching Öst’s One-Session Treatment (OST) with children and adolescents. OST for child specific phobias is discussed, and particular emphasis is given to this treatment’s ongoing adaptation for use with youth on the autism spectrum.
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The authors are greatly appreciative of Tom Ollendick’s many decades of advice, guidance, patience, and mentorship. His kindness, service, and work have been immensely influential to the field and his students.
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Thompson E. Davis reports having received research funding from NSF, NHS, and OAR. He receives book royalties from Springer, occasional fees for trainings/workshops for One-Session Treatment, and is a member of the editorial board for Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review. Justine Brennan reports having received research funding from OAR.
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Davis, T.E., Brennan, J. Specific Phobia, Fear, and the Autism Spectrum in Children and Adolescents: Adapting OST for ASD. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-024-00475-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-024-00475-6