According to the CDC (2022), more than 5 million adults in the United States lives with undiagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Assessment and diagnosis of adult ASD falls within the scope of practice for Master’s level therapists. With proper training, mental health professionals can help Autistic adults recognize their strengths and challenges. Well-informed, thoughtful diagnosis can be achieved through a series of thorough interviews, including taking a family history; reviewing sensory issues, social difficulties and language development; assessment of cognitive functioning; and using self-report questionnaires.
This session will discuss the various diagnosis tools clinicians can use along with the various co-occurring and differential diagnoses associated with ASD in adults. Participants will learn what to look for when making an ASD diagnosis and participants in collaborative case studies to apply discussed topics.. Additionally, this session will discuss the ethical challenges in reporting of diagnosis and the proper reporting methods to state registries.