Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else

Though our understanding of autism has greatly expanded, many autistic individuals are still missed or misdiagnosed. This highly accessible book clarifies many ways that autism can present, particularly in people who camouflage to hide their autistic traits. The authors take the reader step by step through the diagnostic criteria, incorporating the latest research as well as quotes from over 100 autistic contributors that bring that research to life. They also describe many aspects of autism that are not included in the current diagnostic criteria, such as autistic strengths and co-occurring disorders. Readers will learn about highly relevant topics, such as different types of empathy, sensory systems that are not well known, neuro-crash and burn out, and relative versus absolute thinking. This book provides a deep, current, and neurodiversity-affirmative understanding of the less obvious presentations of autism. It is relevant to all healthcare professionals, educators, family members, autistic individuals, and anyone who is curious about autism. A clinical companion guide, Is This Autism? A Companion Guide for Diagnosing, is available for clinicians who make mental health diagnoses.

Part one: What can autism actually look like? 1. Our framework: The current diagnostic criteria 2. Reciprocity 3. Nonverbal communication 4. Relationships 5. Repetitive or idiosyncratic behavior 6. Flexibility 7. Intense or atypical interests 8. Sensory differences Part two: What else might be part of this presentation? 9. Common co-occurring challenges 10. Autistic strengths The End

Donna Henderson, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist, specializing in neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults who would like to understand themselves better. She is a sought-after lecturer and provides training and consultation for other healthcare professionals. Sarah Wayland, PhD, is the founder of Guiding Exceptional Parents, and co-founder of The Behavior Revolution. She provides neurodiversity-affirmative support, education, and community for parents of neurodivergent children. Jamell White, PhD, LCSW-C, has a background in clinical social work, special education, and human development. She specializes in working with autistic children, adolescents, and adults and has over 20 years of clinical experience.