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50-70% of autistic individuals also have ADHD. Yet many Ontario families receive only one diagnosis, missing critical support. This guide covers dual assessment, OAP funding for co-occurring conditions, medication considerations, and finding qualified specialists.
of autistic individuals also meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD, making it the most common co-occurring condition
average delay between first autism diagnosis and identification of co-occurring ADHD, according to developmental pediatricians
maximum OAP Childhood Budget — dual diagnosis can qualify for higher funding tiers due to clinical complexity
Request dual assessment upfront. Hospital-based programs can evaluate both conditions simultaneously.
Specify you want both conditions assessed when booking. Tax deductible as medical expense.
| Area | Autism | ADHD | Both (Dual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attention | Intense focus on interests, difficulty shifting | Difficulty sustaining focus, easily distracted | Hyperfocus on interests AND distractible elsewhere |
| Social | Difficulty reading social cues, preference for routine | Impulsive in social settings, interrupting | Misreads cues AND blurts out inappropriately |
| Movement | Stimming (repetitive motions for regulation) | Hyperactivity, fidgeting, restlessness | Both stimming AND hyperactive movement |
| Executive Function | Rigid thinking, difficulty with transitions | Poor planning, time blindness, disorganization | Rigidity about plans that are poorly organized |
| Sensory | Over/under sensitivity (sound, texture, light) | Sensory seeking, needs stimulation | Complex sensory profile — avoidant AND seeking |
When completing the OAP Determination of Need assessment, ensure the clinician documents both autism and ADHD impacts on daily functioning. Dual diagnosis typically qualifies for higher Childhood Budget tiers ($25,000-$55,000/year for highest needs) because it demonstrates greater clinical complexity.
Whether your child has been diagnosed with one or both conditions, Ontario has resources to help. Start with the right assessment, then access OAP funding.
This page is part of the Family Resources topic cluster. Support resources for families.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is independently verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: February 1, 2026.