Autism spectrum disorder affects 1-2% of children worldwide, yet access to quality care remains limited, especially in underserved communities. Families face systemic barriers such as workforce shortages, high caregiver stress, and a lack of culturally appropriate services. To address these gaps, researchers developed a group-based caregiver training program to improve caregiver well-being and child communication and behavior. Successfully piloted in rural U.S. communities and western Kenya through the AMPATH Program, the intervention showed promising results in reducing caregiver stress and autism severity. Building on this success, a new study will evaluate two delivery models-professionally-led and peer-led-using a rigorous effectiveness-implementation trial. The project applies a reciprocal innovation approach, using insights from Kenya to inform U.S. strategies for scaling community-based autism support. The long-term goal is to reduce disparities in autism care by creating scalable, low-cost, caregiver-driven models. A Community Advisory Panel will guide the research to ensure relevance and impact. This initiative represents a transformative step toward equitable autism services across global and U.S. settings.
Age range
2 Years – 8 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Family Burden and Stress
Timeframe: Baseline and 3 months
Autism Impact Measure (AIM)
Timeframe: Baseline and 3 months