This episode provides a comprehensive guide to managing complex psychiatric challenges in autistic youth, specifically addressing irritability, suicidality, and psychosis. We explore a step-by-step treatment algorithm for irritability that prioritizes functional goals and evidence-based off-label pharmacotherapy, such as guanfacine, memantine, and low-dose naltrexone, to help you avoid premature escalation to antipsychotics. Listeners will gain critical insights from Dr. Paul Lipkin on adapting suicide risk assessments using the ASQ tool and from Dr. Kristin Cadenhead on distinguishing true psychotic symptoms from baseline autistic traits. The discussion also reviews recent research on ADHD interventions, offering practical takeaways to enhance your diagnostic precision and treatment planning. By integrating these expert strategies, you can better n ...