Comorbidity with neurodevelopmental disorders

Although evidence-based treatments exist for common referral problems such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and disruptive behavior disorders, there is relatively little guidance regarding how such treatments should be adapted when treating young clients with co-occurring neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder). The current chapter broadly reviews research on the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and disruptive behavior problems in youth with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Following this review, the research base for whether neurodevelopmental disorder presence predicts or moderates the impact of treatment on outcomes is reviewed with a specific focus on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Finally, recommendations are provided for adapting evidence-based treatments when these neurodevelopmental disorders are present.