OM DETTA AVSNITT
Click here to read the transcript
As clinical evaluators, we frequently encounter cases where diagnostic criteria overlap, leaving us to navigate the complex intersection of co-occurring neurodevelopmental conditions. In this episode, Sara Woods and I explore the emerging construct of AuDHD, examining whether the co-occurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder represents a distinct phenotypic presentation rather than merely two additive diagnoses. We discuss qualitative insights from community self-advocates, neurobiological evidence including gray matter variations, and the complex clinical dynamics of diagnostic overshadowing, double-counting, and autistic masking. Furthermore, we address the practicalities of selecting assessment batteries, evaluating sensory profiles, accounting for socioeconomic privileges in special interests, and navigating neurodiversity-affirming practices without abandoning diagnostic rigor.
Main Topics Covered- 03:02: Defining AuDHD as an emerging construct in clinical and community spheres
- 04:48: Qualitative perspectives on internal tension and the cat-dog analogy
- 11:38: Neurobiological research and gray matter variations in dual presentations
- 19:42: Life-span clinical presentation from childhood masking to adult niche-seeking
- 26:45: Intersections of socioeconomic status, special interests, and sensory needs
- 32:46: Key diagnostic pitfalls: overshadowing, double-counting, and masking
- 44:35: Assessment battery selection and collaborative diagnostic feedback
- 48:34: Navigating client self-identification, social media trends, and ethical boundary setting
Cool Things Mentioned
- Cool Things Mentioned
- Craft: the premier membership community for testing psychologists
- Crafted Practice: the only in-person business retreat for testing psychologists
- Reverb: the premier AI-powered report-writing platform for testing psychologists
- CatDog animated series: www.nick.com
- Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire: www.autismresearchcentre.com
- Embrace Autism website: www.embrace-autism.com
- DIVA-5 Diagnostic Interview: www.divacenter.eu
- Childhood Autism Rating Scale: www.wpspublish.com
- Monteiro Interview Guide for Diagnosing Autism Spectrum: www.wpspublish.com
- Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function: www.parinc.com
- Raising the voices of AuDHD women and girls: exploring the co-occurring conditions of autism and ADHD. Craddock, E. (2024).
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology: www.thechicagoschool.edu
Featured Resources
TherapyNotes is the leading EHR system for mental health practitioners. I’ve used TherapyNotes for over 10 years, and it just keeps getting better. Use this link and the promo code “testing” to get two free months and try it for yourself! www.therapynotes.com/testing
NovoPsych brings 150+ standardized measures into one platform. If you’re interested in high quality measures for personality, disability, ADHD or Autism, try NovoPsych with a 15-day free trial via this link: https://novopsych.com/testingpsychologist
The Testing Psychologist podcast is approved for CEU’s!
I’ve partnered with At Health to offer CE credits for podcast episodes! Visit this link to access current and past episodes available for CE credit. You can use code “TTP10” for a discount on ALL the course credits you purchase from At Health!
Dr. Woods is a clinical psychologist at the University of Washington Autism Center and in private practice at Discover Psychology. She specializes in neurodiversity-affirming differential diagnosis across the lifespan with special expertise in autism and ADHD. She also offers consultation and training to other professionals and community members.
Get in touch:
- Website: www.laceypsychology.com
- Email: drsara@discoverpsychservices.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drsarawoods
I’m a licensed psychologist and Clinical Director at the Colorado Center for Assessment & Counseling, a private practice that I founded in 2009 and have grown to over 20 clinicians. I earned my undergraduate degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina before getting my Master’s and PhD in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. These days, I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological evaluation with kids and adolescents.
As the host of the Testing Psychologist Podcast, I provide private practice consulting for psychologists and other mental health professionals who want to start or grow psychological testing services in their practices. I live in Fort Collins, Colorado with my wife (also a therapist) and two young kids.
Ready to grow your testing services? Click below to join our Waitlist!
