The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive



9170 Never Too Old for a Diagnosis


Thursday, July 14, 2016: 2:15 PM-3:30 PM
Studio 7 (New Orleans Marriott)
The diagnosis of ASD in adulthood has risen dramatically in recent years. ASD in adulthood can be difficult to ascertain due to differences in presentation following years of learning compensatory strategies that mask tell-tale behaviors.
The diagnosis of ASD in adulthood has risen dramatically in recent years, but accurate diagnosis can be difficult because most adults have developed compensatory strategies that mask the tell-tale behaviors thought of when a diagnosis of ASD is given.  In this presentation, appropriate diagnostic strategies will be discussed in detail.  An appropriate diagnostic interview and recommended psychological tests will be described.  Differential diagnosis is extremely important and should be considered carefully when making an initial diagnosis in adulthood.  We will discuss important differentials to consider.  Finally, the presentation will end with a review of practical recommendations that may be made for an adult who is receiving an initial diagnosis.

This presentation is appropriate for psychologists who are seeking CEUs given the depth of information provided on psychological testing, recommendations, and diagnostic issues.

Learning Objectives:

  • Discuss the benefits of diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorders in adults
  • Describe characteristics of ASD in adults
  • Assess what services, if any, are needed for the newly diagnosed

Track: Lifespan 4 - Adulthood

Content Area: Diagnosis

Presenters:

Lisa D. Settles, Psy.D.
Tulane University School of Medicine

Dr. Settles is a psychologist at Tulane University in the School of Medicine. She has faculty appointments in Psychiatry and Pediatrics. She is the Clinical Director of the Tulane Center for Autism and Related Disorders.

Amie Lofton, Psy.D.
Post-Doctoral Fellow in Pediatric Psychology
Tulane University School of Medicine

Dr. Lofton is currently a post-doctoral fellow in Pediatric Psychology at Tulane University. She spent the last year working in the Tulane Center for Autism and Related Disorders.