ADHD and Autism Assessment for Adults

 Presenter:

Lindley Cherry (she/her), LCMHC, QS, NCC (in North Carolina)

Lindley is dedicated to embracing neurodiversity and promoting inclusivity. She specializes in adult ADHD and autism and enjoys training other practitioners on neuro-affirming care. She has taught multiple courses for counselor education programs across NC. Lindley is the president/owner of C&C Betterworks, PA, providing various services as a clinical counselor, coach, and supervisor. She is a part of the queer community, is super neuro-spicy with the ADHD, and is currently obsessed with trying to propagate “non-beginner” indoor plants.

  Therapist Learning Center, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7422. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credits are clearly identified. Therapist Learning Center, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Program Description:

8 Continuing Education Hours

Accurate assessment is the cornerstone of effective intervention and support. For mental health professionals working with adults who may have ADHD or autism, having a toolkit of reliable and valid assessment methods is paramount. This program delves deep into the multitude of assessment tools designed explicitly for evaluating ADHD and autism in the adult population. From standardized questionnaires to nuanced clinical interviews, participants will learn techniques that lead to accurate diagnoses and informed treatment decisions. By the end of this program, participants will possess a comprehensive understanding of adult ADHD and autism assessment tools and the proficiency to utilize them effectively. With this expertise, participants can confidently navigate the complex territory of adult ADHD and autism evaluation, ensuring their clients receive the accurate diagnoses and tailored interventions they need and deserve.

Learning Objectives:

1. Assessment Foundations: Participants will understand the fundamental principles behind assessing ADHD and autism in adults, setting the stage for a deeper dive into specific tools.

2. Questionnaires and Rating Scales: Discover the most reputable standardized questionnaires and rating scales available for adult ADHD and autism evaluation. Participants will learn their structure, application, and interpretation nuances.

3. Behavioral Observations: Grasp the art and science of observing behaviors relevant to ADHD and autism. Participants will be guided on what to look for, how to document, and how to interpret observed behaviors in various contexts.

4. Clinical Interviews: Delve into the dynamics of conducting clinical interviews specifically tailored to uncover symptoms and experiences pertinent to ADHD and autism in adults. Learn the key questions to ask and the signs to watch for.

5. Integrative Assessment Approach: Participants will understand the importance of integrating data from multiple sources to form a comprehensive picture of an individual's neurodevelopmental profile.

6. Limitations and Challenges: Recognize the potential limitations of each assessment tool and the challenges clinicians might encounter in different settings or with various populations.

7. Cultural Sensitivity: Acquire strategies to ensure clinicians’ assessments are culturally sensitive and relevant, avoiding potential biases and ensuring inclusivity.