Impact of ‘Adapting Family Therapy for Autism’ (Afta) training on health professionals’ knowledge and attitudes
An evaluation
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21294069 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Cindy Hsing-Ting Hsiang (0009-0000-5716-6667, Newcastle University, corresponding author), Ella Griffiths (Newcastle University), Meredith Tavener (0000-0002-5972-3815, Newcastle University), Linda Campbell (0000-0002-8872-9626, Newcastle University), E E Freeman (0000-0002-1594-5213, Newcastle University) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 61 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 270-282 |
| Publication date | 2026-05-04 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Australian Psychologist (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0005-0067 • E-ISSN: 1742-9544 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/00050067.2026.2671119 |
| OpenAlex | W7162510020 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 40 |
Objective Reflecting the shift towards a biopsychosocial understanding of autism, the professional training, Adapting Family Therapy for Autism (AFTA), emphasises systemic support for autistic individuals and their families and prioritises their unique strengths and perspectives. The present study is an evaluation of AFTA’s impacts on participants’ knowledge and attitudes.Materials and Methods Clinicians who had completed AFTA training were purposively sampled. Semi-structured interviews guided by the New World Kirkpatrick Model (NWKM) were conducted within 2 weeks of their training completion. Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) used to analyse the data in the current study. This analytical approach explicitly recognises and incorporates the researchers’ active role in knowledge production.Results The results suggest AFTA has motivational influences on participants to implement learning content and re-evaluate their existing therapy approaches, and provide a warm space for learning and intentional engagement design. Participants became aware that family therapy can be adapted to support neurodiverse families. Furthermore, participants showed intention to transfer knowledge and skills gained during the training to their workplace by thinking through and addressing obstacles to implementation.Conclusions The AFTA training has motivated participants to re-evaluate their clinical practices and implement new systemic approaches. This positive impact is likely attributable to the neuro-affirming core beliefs, diverse learning activities, and a focus on practical application
Family health · Family therapy · MEDLINE · Training (meteorology) · Autism Spectrum Disorder Research · Counseling, Therapy, and Family Dynamics · Family and Disability Support Research
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| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |