Evaluating a Spanish-language Executive Functioning Intervention for Children with Autism and/or ADHD and their Families

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT During K23 funding, I will become an independent investigator by adapting and evaluating a Spanish-language version of the evidence-based executive functioning (EF) intervention Unstuck and On Target with children with autism and/or ADHD and their families in multiple contexts. This project is critical because EF difficulties have long-term impacts, evidence-based services to address them are limited, and effective intervention can be applied regardless of diagnosis. Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected on feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness to guide adaptations while maintaining fidelity to core components. My research background in interventions for children with autism and ADHD and their families, along with my clinical and research training specialization in Spanish-language services, has led to my current focus on evaluating and scaling evidence-based interventions. At the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, I have significant support and resources to train to independence utilizing the K23 mechanism. My mentorship team is led by Dr. Laura Anthony, an expert in EF intervention, and includes Dr. Mónica Pérez Jolles, an expert in dissemination and implementation science, Dr. Lauren Haack, an expert on running clinical trials, and Dr. Susan Mikulich Gilbertson, an expert in clinical trial and statistical modeling/ analysis. My training objectives include deepening my understanding of: 1) dissemination and implementation science; 2) clinical trials and statistical modeling; 3) qualitative and mixed-methods analyses; and 4) responsible conduct of research in international contexts. I will accomplish these training objectives through coursework and seminars, guidance from mentors/consultants, and completion of the proposed research.