#62 Dr. Nicole Stadnick, Autism Expert, on Why an Integrated Approach to Treatment is Critical

Dr. Nicole Stadnick is a Psychologist, Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego, Director of Dissemination and Evaluation of the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute Dissemination and Implementation Science Center and investigator in the Child and Adolescent Services Research Center. A primary area of Dr. Stadnick’s research aims to promote equitable access to evidence-based practices and mental health services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and co-occurring mental health needs through tailored service delivery models. She currently leads several implementation projects supported by the National Institutes of Health focused on community-engaged, cross-system health services and implementation research for individuals with complex clinical presentations including publicly funded mental health services and HIV AIDS care programs.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a construct that describes a constellation of social communication difficulties and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviors or interests that have strong genetic underpinnings and appear early in life. People on the autism spectrum often have difficulties with social, emotional, and communication skills. They might also repeat certain behaviors or have a hard time changing routines or daily activities. Signs of ASD emerge during early childhood and typically last throughout a person’s life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

To address the documented disparities in access and receipt of evidence-based care for autistic individuals, service models are increasingly focused on ways to promote equity in access and reach. Primary care is well-positioned to reach those who may be at most risk of facing health disparities. Examples in primary care include the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program and the Access to Tailored Autism Integrated Care model, both which are accumulating evidence for feasibility, acceptability, and adoption (Stadnick et al., 2019; Stadnick et al., 2021).

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Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is not a substitute for getting help from a mental health professional.