Overview

This eLearning series will equip participants with an advanced and integrated understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), its impact on the lives of individuals with a diagnosis, and how to ensure a best-practice approach. It was formulated and guided by an Expert Reference Group, consisting of Australian psychologists and educators, all leaders in their field:

• Prof. Amanda Richdale, LaTrobe University, Melbourne,

• Dr. Emma Goodall, University of Southern Queensland and Torrens University, and

• Dr Jessica Paynter, Griffith University, Queensland.

This series consists of four (4) separate modules:

1. Autism Foundations,

2. Assessment and diagnosis,

3. Identifying common co-morbidities, and

4. Evidence-based practice.

The first three modules provide an understanding of aetiology, epidemiology, assessment and differential diagnoses, to inform and evaluate practice. The final module explores a contemporary approach to evidence-based support.

3. Identifying common co-morbidities

This is the third module in the series. Autism has a high prevalence of co-morbid medical and psychological conditions, as well as behavioural problems that may lead an individual to harm themselves or challenge others. Some conditions are not easily distinguished from autism, due to overlapping symptoms. Communication difficulties may be present and provide additional complexity to assessment and treatment. Mental health disorders are often viewed as a separate concern - or conversely, an inevitable manifestation of autism - and remain untreated. Yet symptoms of distress, while often atypical, are among the most urgent concerns for many individuals.

This module aims to:

• assist participants in identifying and treating co-morbid conditions, and
• improve efficacy of interventions and the life satisfaction and long-term health of the clients they work with.  

Level of Learning

Intermediate. This activity is targeted to those who have some previous learning on the topic.

Duration of access

Access to this eLearning activity is for 6 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This eLearning activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality.

Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this eLearning activity, participants should be able to:

• list the common comorbid mental (DSM-5) and physical health conditions associated with ASD,

• describe typical gastrointestinal problems, including any role of diet and impact on daytime behaviour,

• describe the characteristic presentations of anxiety and depression across the autism spectrum,

• describe the characteristic presentation of behaviour problems including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),

• list common physical health complaints occurring in adults on the spectrum,

• outline intervention and transdiagnostic approaches, and

• describe referral and inter-disciplinary care practices.