Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & Children: Best Practices in Diagnosis and Care

Developed by Alessandra Maria Chiesa, Ph.D.

Course content available in articles and video.

This course has been approved by IBCCES

This course is also offered as part of the Autism Across the Lifespan Certificate Package

The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the USA is on the rise. Chances are that, if one provides mental health services to families and/or children, they are likely to work with a family that has a child on the spectrum. This course is designed to inform clinicians of best practices in the identification of ASD and help mental health providers gather the knowledge to help families advocate for community and school-based services.

This intermediate level course is comprised of three videos with audio and transcript versions available. The first section covers key issues in considering a diagnosis of ASD for children under the age of 18. The second section reviews key research in the domain of ASD including prevalence rates and equity issues. The final section discusses key components of a thorough evaluation, with a review of common interventions and treatments. Case examples are used throughout to illustrate concepts presented.

Syllabus

Key issues to be aware of when considering a diagnosis of autism for children under age 18
- The difference between a medical diagnosis of autism and an educational eligibility of autism
- Review of DSM-5 medical diagnostic criteria
- Review Dept of Education guidelines for educational eligibility criteria
- Discussion regarding how a medical diagnosis will not automatically get special education services for a child in school
The role of a mental health provider in the process of early identification and advocacy
Possible explanations for why prevalence of ASD is increasing in the U.S
- Review of research-based data examining a possible correlation between childhood vaccines and development of ASD.
- Increased community awareness
- Increased professional knowledge about Autism
- Diagnostic criteria have changed over time to allow for earlier diagnosis
- Improved medical technology to save high risk pregnancies and deliveries may put children at a higher risk for ASD
- Better assessment tools in all professions
Equity issues in terms of age of diagnosis
How clinicians can help families with earlier identification of ASD.
- Advocacy
- Screening
- Other
Recommended elements of a comprehensive Psychological Evaluation
- Parent interview
- IQ
- Adaptive functioning
- Other areas of concern specific to the child that emerge during evaluation
Top research-based resources mental health providers can consult regarding autism

Educational Objectives

Identify core characteristics of ASD, and better understand the great variability along the spectrum of characteristics from mild to severe.
Distinguish between medical diagnosis and an educational eligibility.
Identify your role as a mental health provider in the process of early identification and advocacy.
Identify what a best practice, comprehensive, psychoeducational assessment includes.

ASD501

February 25, 2022

Educational Objectives

Identify core characteristics of ASD, and better understand the great variability along the spectrum of characteristics from mild to severe.
Distinguish between medical diagnosis and an educational eligibility.
Identify your role as a mental health provider in the process of early identification and advocacy.
Identify what a best practice, comprehensive, psychoeducational assessment includes.