ECHO autism: mental health prepares professionals to better serve autistic clients with co-occurring mental health conditions

Purpose The majority of autistic individuals struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions. Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) autism: mental health is a virtual, de-identified case-based professional development program committed to creating a learning community of mental health clinicians supporting autistic clients. The purpose of the current study is to understand how the ECHO program can impact learning among clinicians who work with autistic clients with co-occurring mental health conditions. Design/methodology/approach The current study investigated the experience of the clinicians in the ECHO autism: mental health program from 2020 to 2023. A total of 72 participants completed pre- and post-program assessments to evaluate the impact and benefits of ECHO autism: mental health. Findings Nearly all of the participants (99%, n = 71) who completed the post program satisfaction survey stated that the program was a feasible and effective way to learn; 97% (n = 69) agreed or strongly agreed that their self-efficacy increased in implementing evidence-based practice, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for their autistic clients. In open-ended responses, participants reported that they learned the most from the case studies and didactic sessions, and as a result are more knowledgeable about implementing CBT, social skills interventions, exposure therapy, visual supports and coping strategies in their clinical practice. Originality/value This study contributes to understanding how virtual programs have the potential to overcome the systematic barriers and support clinicians in working with autistic clients with co-occurring mental health conditions.