The ESSENCE of Autism and Other Neurodevelopmental Conditions

An overview of the ESSENCE framework, written by a leading expert

A comprehensive overview into the ESSENCE (Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examinations) framework. The term refers to the interplay between conditions such as autism, ADHD and tic disorders, and the need for a more holistic clinical approach to diagnosis and support of those who fall under the ESSENCE umbrella.

ESSENCE (Early Symptomatic Syndromes Eliciting Neurodevelopmental Clinical Examinations) refers to the group of neurodevelopmental disorders including autism, ADHD and tic disorders as well as conditions gaining increasing awareness such as ARFID, PANS and PANDAS.

Professor of child psychiatry Christopher Gillberg describes the lifetime prognosis of ESSENCE, examining the common co-occurrence between these conditions and the symptoms they present.

Whilst diagnoses are often treated in isolation, Gillberg presents these issues as an overall condition, and advises treatment and support based on a holistic approach. This book also demonstrates the need for holistic whole-person interventions and assessments to improve outcomes for people within this group.