August 28-29 & October 23-24, 2026
Pittsburgh, PA
Course Description:
Diagnosing Autism in Adults: A Comprehensive, Trauma-Informed, Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach (12 Hours)
Autism has historically been under-recognized in adults, particularly among women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, intellectually gifted people, and those who have learned to camouflage or mask autistic characteristics. As awareness grows, clinicians increasingly encounter adults seeking diagnostic clarification after years—or even decades—of inaccurate diagnoses and ineffective treatment. Conducting high-quality autism evaluations requires far more than familiarity with the DSM-5-TR criteria; it requires an understanding of developmental history, differential diagnosis, trauma, sensory processing, masking, and the lived experiences of autistic adults.
This intensive two-day training provides clinicians with a comprehensive, evidence-based framework for evaluating Autism in adults through a trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming lens. Participants will examine the historical evolution of autism diagnosis, explore current research on prevalence, ableism, and the Double Empathy Problem, and learn how autism commonly presents across diverse adult populations. The training reviews the strengths and limitations of commonly used screening and diagnostic instruments—including the AQ, RAADS-4, CAT-Q, ADOS-2, and MIGDAS-2—and emphasizes the importance of integrating developmental history, collateral information, behavioral observation, and clinical judgment.
Participants will also develop practical skills in conducting adult autism diagnostic interviews, applying DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, differentiating autism from overlapping psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions, and formulating clinically sound diagnostic impressions. The course concludes with a live diagnostic demonstration and a supervised assessment practicum that allows participants to apply newly acquired skills in a structured, supportive learning environment.
Designed for licensed mental health professionals and graduate-level trainees, this workshop equips clinicians with practical tools for conducting comprehensive adult autism evaluations that are evidence-based, culturally responsive, and grounded in respect for autistic lived experience.
Presenter Bios: Mike Elliot, AuDHD, MS, NCC, LPC, EMDRIA Approved Consultant & Trainer. Mike Elliot is the Clinical Director of Elliot Counseling, a multidisciplinary group private practice specializing in the assessment and treatment of ADHD, autism, attachment trauma, dissociation, and LGBTQIA+ affirming mental health care. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania and is an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and Trainer.
Mike earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Pittsburgh before completing a Master of Science in Professional Counseling at Carlow University. His diverse educational background informs his analytical, evidence-based, and neurodiversity-affirming approach to clinical practice and training.
He has completed advanced postgraduate training through the Albert Ellis Institute, the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, the Institute for Creative Mindfulness, and Somatic Experiencing International. His clinical work integrates contemporary research with practical, trauma-informed interventions to support individuals with complex presentations, including neurodevelopmental differences, attachment injuries, and dissociative disorders.
As an educator and consultant, Mike is committed to helping clinicians provide ethical, evidence-informed, and affirming care through engaging trainings that bridge research with real-world clinical application.
Timeline:
Course Agenda – Day 1
• 8:30 – 9:00 Registration and Introductions
• 9:00 – 10:30 Foundations of Adult Autism
• 10:30 – 10:45 Morning Break
• 10:45 – 12:15 Myths, Epidemiology, and Ableism
• 12:15 – 1:15 Lunch
• 1:15 – 2:45 Adult Assessment Principles
• 2:45 – 3:00 Break
• 3:00 – 4:30 Autism and Common Co-occurring Conditions
Course Agenda – Day 2
• 9:00 – 10:30 Module 5: Autism Assessment Instruments
• 10:30 – 10:45 Morning Break
• 10:45 – 11:45 Module 6: Applying DSM-5-TR Criteria
• 11:45 – 12:45 Lunch
• 12:45 – 1:45 Live Diagnostic Demonstration
• 1:45 – 2:00 Break
• 2:00 – 4:00 Supervised Diagnostic Interview Practicum
• 4:00 – 4:30 Case Debrief and Clinical Integration
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of the training, participants will:
To register for this live course please visit: Elliot Counseling
This course is Interactive .
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