Center News

The Important Role of Psychiatrists in Meeting the Needs of Autistic Children and Adults

When people think of supportive services for autism, they often imagine specially trained teachers, psychologists, social workers, or speech and occupational therapists. They don’t always think of psychiatrists. But they should.

Autistic children and adults often experience co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Some studies suggest that up to 70 percent of autistic people have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Up to 50 percent suffer from anxiety disorders, and many autistic individuals also experience depression and other psychiatric conditions.

Trainee Spotlight: Adesuwa Emovon, MMCi

Clinical Research that Improves Access to Healthcare and Empowers Caregivers

Adesuwa Emovon has always enjoyed working with children, whether it involved teaching them a new concept or playing games. As a graduate student, she sought out the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development to broaden her experience in working with children with disabilities and their families and learn more about research. 

Improving Medical Care for Autistic Patients in the Duke University Health System and Beyond

Going to the doctor can be stressful for anyone. All that poking and prodding, the lab work, and the concern that brought you to the clinic in the first place can combine to make even a regular checkup a taxing experience. 

Now imagine arriving for that same clinical visit with the unique sensitivities and needs that can accompany an individual on the autism spectrum.