Current Trends and Best Practices in Developmental Disabilities Assessment for Autism and Intellectual Disability

Individuals with developmental disabilities, such as intellectual disability and autism require accurate and timely diagnosis to receive appropriate services and intervention. This workshop aims to provide up-to-date information on the current practice of developmental disabilities assessments. Case examples will be utilized as the facilitators break down the important components of a diagnostic evaluation, from reviewing records to direct testing and behavioral observation. The facilitators will discuss evidence-based case formulation, which is integral to a robust diagnostic report. Differential diagnosis will be highlighted. Various multicultural factors impacting the diagnostic evaluation will also be discussed.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the current trends and best practices in the field of developmental disabilities.
• Apply the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Intellectual Disability appropriately in real-life cases.

Sheryll M. Casuga, PsyD, and Nicole Kirsch, PsyD