Evaluation of a Mental imagery Therapy for Autism application for language improvement in children with autism spectrum disorder

Background Language delays and social communication difficulties are core features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Digital interventions such as Mental Imagery Therapy for Autism (MITA) may provide accessible early support.Objectives To evaluate longitudinal changes in language outcomes following MITA use and assess changes in sociability and sensory/cognitive awareness over 6 months.Methods In this prospective longitudinal study, 51 children with ASD were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Expressive language, sociability, sensory/cognitive awareness, and overall severity were evaluated using the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC), while receptive language was assessed using the Mental Synthesis Evaluation Checklist (MSEC). Paired statistical tests were performed with Bonferroni correction, and standardized effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals were calculated.Results Total ATEC scores decreased significantly at 3 and 6 months. Speech/Language/Communication showed large improvements at both follow-ups. Sociability and Sensory/Cognitive Awareness also improved significantly, with further gains at 6 months. MSEC scores showed significant improvement only at 6 months.Conclusion Six months of MITA use was associated with improvements in language, social, and cognitive functioning in children with ASD. Randomized controlled trials are needed to establish causality.