IDD/Neurodiversity

This course for behavioral health providers offers a deep dive into the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), focusing on mitigating diagnostic overshadowing. Central to the course is an examination of diagnostic overshadowing; participants will explore its definition and multifaceted concerns. Participants will learn about the complexities that hinder accurate diagnoses and tailored interventions, such as gatekeeping tendencies and barriers to accessing healthcare. By exploring co-occurring diagnoses, we will analyze essential definitions and considerations that are crucial for accurate assessment and intervention planning, laying the groundwork for nuanced care provision.

Delving into assessment considerations will equip you with practical strategies for navigating the complex diagnostic landscape for individuals with I/DD. By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of I/DD care, reduce diagnostic overshadowing, and provide holistic, culturally sensitive support to individuals with I/DD, ultimately enhancing your capacity to deliver effective, person-centered care.

This course focuses on working with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) aims to equip the learner with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and support this population effectively.

1 in 36 individuals in the U.S. is autistic. This course is designed to provide knowledge and skill development for individuals working with neurodivergent clients. It covers common characteristics of autistic individuals with average to above-average cognitive abilities and risk factors, including associated medical concerns and suicide.

Additionally, treatment, research, and cultural considerations are discussed to develop cultural competency skills when serving this population group.