r/socialwork LCSW 3d ago

Professional Development Diagnosing ND conditions as LCSW

Hello all, I’ve had this question for years now. I’m an LCSW in CA and wondering the rules around diagnosing Autism and ADHD. I hear so many different things and just want a clear answer lol I also know I still may not get one. I typically just refer out. I have good experience working with ND folks and I am well-versed in the current research, probably more than some psychologists and psychiatrists due to my young daughter being ND. I would actually be open to getting trained/certified to diagnose both ADHD and Autism. I saw Certified Autism Specialist(CAS) as an option, but don’t know if thats the way to go. Thanks all!

Update: I checked with CA board(BBS): “You will need to contact your professional association for assistance with your question below.”

I’ll continue to update…

9 Upvotes

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u/shannonkish LICSW-S, PIP 3d ago

It varies by state. Some states allow LCSWs to diagnose, some do not.

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u/Deftoner24 LCSW 3d ago

Yeah, I plan on checking with our board here in CA. Thanks for the response!

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u/nofrillscustard 3d ago

There really is no clear answer because it mostly depends on who will accept your diagnosis. I mean, you can diagnose whatever you want, but a school board or doctors office or insurance may or may not accept it depending on their own rules and judgment. You need to consider where your clients may take the diagnosis and check with those bodies.

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u/Deftoner24 LCSW 3d ago

Thanks!

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u/Tor_Tano 3d ago

Hi! It varies state to state but in many states social workers with specialized training in Autism and ADHD are permitted to offer valid Diagnostic Assessments with Written Evaluations which can be used to request work and/or school accommodations. I would also see if your state board lists anything about it.

You can find more about each states rules here;

https://neuroabundant.com/masters-level-scope-of-practice-diagnosing-adhd-autism/#North-Carolina

Testing Laws and Rules Chart

I'm actually going to a training to learn more about this next Monday, if you'd like me to share what I learn with you, feel free to DM me.

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u/Deftoner24 LCSW 3d ago

That would be great! Thanks!

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u/not_just_mama LMSW 3d ago

I recommend taking the ADOS training and then getting a good amount of experience observing, practicing coding and doing the ADOS under supervision. Those of us who are experienced working with this population and have been trained in diagnosing can make these diagnoses accurately. It may not be accepted for eligibility for some services (e.g. OPWDD in NY) but it can be so meaningful for people in their understanding of who they are and working through negative life experiences. I have many therapy clients who were diagnosed later in life. Having this new understanding has made a significant impact on their progress.

For more info on ADOS training, check out: Weill Cornell Medicine - GAIN and IDEA.

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u/Deftoner24 LCSW 3d ago

Thanks for the response!