Autism Spectrum Disorder/ADHD

In the past twenty years Dr. Scott has evaluated more than 1500 individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disabilities and  other serious developmental disabilities.

Autism Spectrum Disorders include a range of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behavior. Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life.  These signs often develop gradually, though some children with autism reach their developmental milestones at a normal pace and then regress.

An early, accurate diagnosis is always important—but it’s especially crucial when comorbidities exist. Current research shows that when autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) co-occur, symptoms of both are likely to be more severe. The sooner targeted therapies begin, the better outcomes are likely to be for people with these conditions.

Today, a dual diagnosis of ASD + ADHD is a valid diagnostic option. In fact, current research indicates that 30%–80% of people with ASD have diagnostic symptoms of ADHD, and 20%–50% of children with ADHD have diagnostic symptoms of ASD (Kernbach et al., 2018). That overlap can make reaching the right diagnosis harder, especially when ASD and ADHD result in similar-looking behaviors.