The LENS “Learning Enhancement through Neurostimulation” study will examined whether brain stimulation paired with social skills learning can help teenagers ages 12-17 with autism learn how to make and keep friends. Brain stimulation can enhance learning in some people.

This study involved enrolling in a 14-week training program where teenagers with autism interact in small groups and learn social skills using the evidence-based PEERS protocol (UCLA Program for Education and Enhancement of Relational Skills). Participants received active brain stimulation, or non-active stimulation (placebo).

Watch the Youtube video to view a demonstration of the brain stimulation process, featuring Dr. Gwynette as the LENS subject.

Before and after this training, MRI scans were taken to see whether the training with active brain stimulation made a difference in brain activation.