ASD301 - Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Differential Diagnoses 3 CE Credits

Course overview

Many individuals on the autism spectrum are misdiagnosed with mental health conditions. For the clinician serving clients, questions may arise as to how to flag clients that may be missing a correct diagnosis of autism and how to recognize common related characteristics. This introductory to intermediate level course is divided into two parts, each containing videos with audio and pdf versions. The first part, divided into two sections, is presented in an interview format with Dr. Regan as she reviews diagnostic features of autism and four other diagnoses (attention deficit disorder, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma/PTSD). Dr. Regan provides associated charts comparing clinical features and also reviews clinical cases highlighting similarities and differences in presenting features. The second part of the course is a presentation about autism within specific clinical populations including those with somatoform features, dissociative episodes, eating disorders, gender diversity, problematic internet use/pathological gaming, and alcohol/substance abuse. Resources for clinicians are offered as bonus information which summarize the major differences between disorders, followed by clinical examples. They are not included as part of the course posttest.