Research at COMIC

ASPECT (Alleviating Specific Phobias Experienced by Children Trial)

This study investigated whether One Session Treatment vs Cognitive Behaviour Therapy was effective for treating specific phobias in children and young people.

DIVERT

The DIVERT study is focused on self-help toolkits for young people who have had difficulties with emotions or thoughts which has led them to hurt themselves. It’s being led by Dr Clare Fenton, a child psychiatrist at COMIC who works in and around York. For the study, we are holding some workshops on Saturday mornings at the York city centre library (dates are currently being confirmed). There is a young teenager workshop for 11-13 year olds and an older teen workshop for 14-18 year olds. We’re also holding another separate workshop each for parents/carers and professionals to share their thoughts about self-help toolkits and learn about them.

In the workshops for young people, you will learn more about self-help toolkits and get to make one if you have never made one before (we will give you all the resources including diaries, essential oil, fidget toys, slime etc etc!). As this is a study about the use of self-help toolkits there will be activities around what you think should or should not be in these toolkits (you don’t need to talk in a group, the activities are individual tasks). As a thank you for participating in the study and offering your opinion we will give each you a £20 love2shop shopping voucher. Parents do not need to attend but do need to consent for those under 16 years. There will be tea, coffee and cake for you and any parents who accompany you and any younger siblings.

For more information and to get involved with this study please click here or to view the study poster click here.

CONIFAS

This project co-produced a nature-based intervention for children with ADHD with families, children and professionals.

Soundfields

This study looked at whether Virtual Reality (VR) can help autistic children with sound hyper-sensitivity.

I-SOCIALISE

Investigating Social Competence and Isolation in children with Autism taking part in LEGO® based therapy clubs In School Environments.

This study examined whether LEGO® based therapy (play brick therapy) groups in schools have any impact on the social and emotional competence and perceived social isolation of autistic children. The research also aimed to look at whether it is cost-effective for schools to run and whether the young people and school staff like it.

ASSSIST2 – (Autism Spectrum Social Stories™ In Schools Trial 2)

This study investigated if Social Stories™ can support autistic children at school and if they are cost effective.

MARS

A project to investigate whether microRNAs can be used as biomarkers in autism.

Safety Nets

A social prescribing intervention for young people on CAMHS waiting lists, delivered by combining physical activity and psychoeducation sessions at local sports clubs.

Green and Blue Spaces

A survey study to discover how people used green and blue spaces during COVID-19 Lockdowns in the UK.

Diagnostic Instruments for Autism in Deaf children’s Study (DIADS)

Modification of diagnostic assessments to improve autism diagnosis for Deaf children.

Attachment

A systematic review of early interventions for parents of Deaf infants – a systematic review of the research evidence for early parenting support interventions of Deaf infants.

Engaging with the Deaf community

Raising the awareness of British Sign Language Engaging with the Deaf community – Raising awareness of British Sign Language.