Autism and Co-Occurring Conditions Program

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have other medical conditions as well. This can be challenging for a family trying to balance appointments with multiple doctors, school, family life and work life. Common conditions that co-occur with ASD include:

• Anxiety
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depression
• Epilepsy
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Sleep disorders

Treatment for Multiple Medical Conditions, All in One Visit

A visit to the doctor can be extra stressful for a child with ASD. When your child has more than one medical condition, multiple visits with different providers can add stress to your whole family, including lost work time for parents, lost school time for children and disruption for the child.

At the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center, children with co-occurring conditions may be seen by pediatric specialists and psychologists to help treat their ASD and other underlying conditions. Having all your providers at one visit can not only reduce the amount of stress on the family, but it also allows your providers to talk together and map out the best treatment plan for your child.

Providing Your Child a Medical Home

The Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center has been created with your child in mind. We understand that your child needs a place to feel safe and secure, while receiving the best care possible. Research has shown that a child with ASD will often view the exam room as theirs, and we have created exam rooms and appointment protocols to accommodate. Our specialists visit with your child as an individual, not as a diagnosis. Your child will get to know the team, so there will be reduced stress from new faces. We will work to make your child – and your family – feel welcome and as relaxed as possible.

How can my child participate in the program?

Children who take part in the Co-Occurring Conditions Program at the Thompson Autism and Neurodevelopmental Center will be referred by their provider at CHOC. If you have questions about your child and our program, speak with your child’s CHOC provider for more information.