A 27-year-old woman with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), level 1, is referred to the PMHNP for evaluation of anxiety symptoms. She reports intense distress in social situations, avoidance of unfamiliar environments, rigid adherence to daily routines with severe distress when routines are disrupted, repetitive checking of her schedule and belongings, and difficulty with transitions between activities. She also describes sensory overload in crowded or noisy environments that triggers panic-like symptoms including racing heart, nausea, and an overwhelming need to leave. She has been told by a previous provider that she has generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The PMHNP considers the diagnostic assessment. Which of the following best reflects evidence-based practice for differentiating anxiety from core ASD features in this patient?