Diagnosis Interview - Worried

Write a 'potted history' of yourself, from childhood as far back as you can remember up to the present day.

Remember any misunderstandings you have had, what your parents said to you, whether you got into trouble for reasons you could not fathom, whether you engage in social activities or not, any sensory difficulties you have, whether friendships come easily, any obsessions you have, whether you are a bit of a 'loner' or not, any triggers for meltdowns, whether you follow instructions easily or just do things your own way .... as much detail as you can.  And send it in advance and refer to it during the interview.

Many of us become tongue tied in that situation and it would be ok to refer to any notes you have.  Try to 'lead' the conversation, don't just wait for questions.  I made copious notes before hand and once I start there is no stopping me!  It would be expected that someone autistic may have problems in a situation such as that and I had no problem at all with the psychologist when I referred to my notes.  Above all, know what you are going to say and say it from the notes if necessary. 

The assessor should know what questions to ask, but my problem is in a situation like that I would just dry up and if asked anything at all my mind would go blank so preparation for me was very helpful.  Remember they will be looking for the 'triad of impairments' so make sure you cover that with examples.  And do not leave it to being asked a question, if there is something you want to say, say it whether it is relevant to a question asked or not.  It is not an academic exam for you!.

Write a 'potted history' of yourself, from childhood as far back as you can remember up to the present day.

Remember any misunderstandings you have had, what your parents said to you, whether you got into trouble for reasons you could not fathom, whether you engage in social activities or not, any sensory difficulties you have, whether friendships come easily, any obsessions you have, whether you are a bit of a 'loner' or not, any triggers for meltdowns, whether you follow instructions easily or just do things your own way .... as much detail as you can.  And send it in advance and refer to it during the interview.

Many of us become tongue tied in that situation and it would be ok to refer to any notes you have.  Try to 'lead' the conversation, don't just wait for questions.  I made copious notes before hand and once I start there is no stopping me!  It would be expected that someone autistic may have problems in a situation such as that and I had no problem at all with the psychologist when I referred to my notes.  Above all, know what you are going to say and say it from the notes if necessary. 

The assessor should know what questions to ask, but my problem is in a situation like that I would just dry up and if asked anything at all my mind would go blank so preparation for me was very helpful.  Remember they will be looking for the 'triad of impairments' so make sure you cover that with examples.  And do not leave it to being asked a question, if there is something you want to say, say it whether it is relevant to a question asked or not.  It is not an academic exam for you!.

That's very good and I shall do that. Thanks! aspiewren

Thanks and thanks to Bagpuss7 as well. Yes I'm already up to point number 137. I do intend to send it on in advance.

I'm sure that when I start I'll no stop, I'll get loud, I'll get passionate, I'll start pacing around, and no doubt cry as well. Then it will be right question 2!