An intervention for fears and phobias in young people with autism spectrum disorders using flat screen computer-delivered virtual reality and cognitive behaviour therapy

•Anxiety is among the most common reasons for referral of children and adolescents with ASD to health services; many have situation specific anxiety, fear and phobias.•A recent review of treatment for fear and phobias in autism found, with one exception, only small studies of behavioural and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).•Adaptations to CBT have been advised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to increase the effectiveness of treatment for autistic people.