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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
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About Dr. Sara Woods
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
About Dr. Jeremy Sharp
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.
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