Recognizing Neurodivergence in Adults: Screening for Autism, ADHD & AuDHD Beyond the Stereotypes

Many adults spend decades believing they are “too sensitive,” “too much,” “lazy,” “socially awkward,” or “anxious,” never realizing that autism, ADHD, or co-occurring AuDHD may underlie many of their lifelong experiences. As awareness of neurodivergence continues to grow, increasing numbers of adults are bringing questions about possible autism and ADHD into the therapy room. At the same time, many helping professionals are recognizing that highly masked presentations – particularly among women and others whose characteristics have historically been overlooked – can be easily mistaken for anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, or other mental health concerns. Developing the ability to recognize these patterns can significantly enhance assessment, case conceptualization, therapeutic understanding, and referral decisions.

This practical, evidence-informed workshop will help clinicians develop a confident screening lens for identifying possible neurodivergence in adult clients. Focusing on autism, ADHD, and co-occurring AuDHD, participants will learn to recognize both classic and less obvious presentations, including the many ways neurodivergence may be masked across the lifespan.

Drawing on current DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, NHS guidance, contemporary research, and extensive assessment experience, this workshop explores characteristic patterns, clusters of traits, common masking strategies, and the complex overlap between neurodivergence, trauma, and other mental health presentations. Participants will gain greater confidence in recognizing when neurodivergence may warrant further exploration, discussing these observations with clients in a sensitive and neurodiversity-affirming manner, and making appropriate referrals for comprehensive diagnostic assessment when indicated.

While this workshop does not provide training in formal diagnosis, it will equip participants with practical knowledge to recognize possible neurodivergence, offer neurodiversity-affirming psychoeducation, and support clients in accessing appropriate assessment, accommodations, and services.

You will learn:

• How autism, ADHD, and AuDHD commonly present in adults—including both stereotypical and less-recognized presentations.
• How masking can influence the presentation of neurodivergence, particularly among women and other highly masked individuals.
• How to recognize common clusters of traits that may suggest further exploration of neurodivergence.
• How neurodivergence can overlap with trauma and other mental health presentations, and why this matters clinically.
• How to incorporate an informed, ethical screening lens into clinical practice while understanding the boundaries between screening and formal diagnosis. When and how to discuss possible neurodivergence with clients and make appropriate referrals for comprehensive diagnostic assessment.

​You will receive:

• Login details and instructions emailed in advance of the workshop
• Downloadable handouts
• Certificate of attendance upon successful completion of a brief online quiz (if desired)
• Access to a recording of the workshop for a limited period of time after the workshop – so if you can’t join live, or need to miss part of the live workshop and want to view it afterwards, we’ve got you covered!