Learn how gifted children, adults are misdiagnosed
Giftedness can mask as ADD, Asperger's, bipolar disorder
By Stephanie Bertholdo bertholdo@theacorn.com

A child identified as a "gifted" learner is a source of pride for many parents, but gifted children- and adults- sometimes risk being misdiagnosed with a range of disorders and disabilities because of their high IQ.

Judy Wiener, a licensed and certified social worker and marriage and family therapist, will address issues faced by gifted students and adults at the Conejo Valley Mental Health Professional Association Meet and Greet on Feb. 1.

"Giftedness can be misdiagnosed as attention deficit, Asperger's, bipolar, learning and other disorders," Wiener said. "On the other hand, giftedness can mask such disorders, or it may not be recognized that someone has both a disorder and giftedness."

Wiener said the public is welcome to attend the meeting

The sessions are generally scheduled on the first Friday of the month from noon to 1 p.m. at the offices of the Teen Scene Outpatient Program, 30343 Canwood St., Ste. 208A, in Agoura Hills. There is no charge to attend, and no RSVP is necessary. Participants are welcome to bring lunch to eat during the meeting, Wiener said.

"The meetings provide an opportunity to learn from others' expertise and to network with other mental health professionals," Wiener said. Professionals from various mental health disciplines, including psychologists, psychiatrists, licensed marriage and family therapists and others, frequently attend the monthly meetings.

For more information, contact Judy Wiener at (818)870-0435, ext. 3, or email her at jwiener@sbcglobal.net.