AuDHD is a term people often use when someone experiences both ADHD and autism. It is not a separate diagnosis, but it can be a helpful way to describe how these two neurotypes can overlap and shape daily life.

ADHD and autism can sometimes pull in different directions. A child or teen may crave routine but struggle to follow it, need predictability but seek novelty, or feel socially interested while also becoming overwhelmed by sensory input, transitions or peer pressure.

AuDHD may show up through:

• Emotional regulation challenges, meltdowns or shutdowns
• Sensory overwhelm, strong preferences or difficulty with transitions
• Trouble with focus, organization, task initiation or follow-through
• School stress, social pressure, anxiety or burnout
• A mix of needing structure and feeling restricted by too much structure

At Peaks and Valleys Therapy, we support children and teens with autism, clients with ADHD, and families who are trying to better understand how overlapping needs may be affecting home, school and relationships.

For adults, AuDHD therapy may also be helpful when ADHD has been diagnosed later in life and autism traits or sensory needs are part of the broader picture. Therapy can offer support for self-understanding, burnout, executive functioning, emotional regulation and practical coping strategies.