Autism as a Secondary Diagnosis

There are a number of conditions that tend to overlap with autism. While some of these include classic medical conditions, like sleep disorders or epilepsy, there is some convergence with mental health conditions that may cause you to seek treatment for a teen with autism. Autism and mental health are often linked because the condition results in difficulty with social interactions, trouble with schoolwork, and anxiety over societal expectations.

If you think your child is dealing with depression, anxiety, gaming and device management, or ADHD in conjunction with their autism, Ascend can help.

Autism at Ascend

While we don’t treat autism as a primary diagnosis, we can help high-functioning teens with autism who also struggle with a variety of mental health conditions. We have clinicians on our team that are ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) certified and trained to work with people on the spectrum. 

Once your teen is evaluated by our team, we can create a customized treatment plan that addresses how autism as a secondary diagnosis may be affecting their mental health. By approaching autism and mental health simultaneously, we believe that our clinical methods will have much more effective results.

Get Help Today

Many parents come to Ascend because they have concerns about a child who has autism and may also be dealing with declining mental health. At our inclusive teen treatment program, we have experience with autism in teens. Work with us to ensure your child can get the help they need to fulfill their true potential.

Ready to reach out? Call us at 310.388.3713 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does autism affect mental health?

Autism and mental health are deeply connected. Teens on the spectrum often face unique challenges that can lead to heightened stress. Difficulties with social interactions, sensory overload, and academic pressures can trigger anxiety or depression. By addressing autism along with other mental health challenges, we can help teens feel more confident and supported in every aspect of their lives.

What is autism as a secondary diagnosis?

When autism is a secondary diagnosis, it means that while autism is present, the primary concern may be a different mental health condition, like anxiety, depression, or ADHD. At Ascend, we take a dual approach, crafting personalized plans that tackle both autism and the co-occurring condition for a more holistic recovery experience.

Does Ascend work with teens who have autism?

Yes, we do! While we don’t treat autism as a primary diagnosis, we support high-functioning teens on the spectrum who are also managing mental health challenges. Our team includes ABA-trained clinicians who understand how to meet the needs of teens with autism — focusing on strengths while helping them navigate their struggles.

What are common mental health challenges in teens with autism?

Teens with autism often face co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. Social expectations, sensory sensitivities, and the pressure to “fit in” can amplify these struggles. At Ascend, we recognize the challenges of autism and mental health and work to provide an environment where teens can thrive just as they are.