Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi!
I have been looking at getting referred to an occupational therapist (OT) via doctors/work and it's there just seems to be so many hurdles.
For context, I work for a very small business, so doctor has advised me to get referred via the NHS, which he said should have a fairly quick turn around, so has referred me on the things I am entitled to following my diagnosis report:
I was told all of the above was to be referred via my GP, as I mentioned, which was done through a face-to-face appointment.
Following this, my doctor got back to me a few days later and told me:
"Hi,I referred you to Occupational Health for the Sensory Assessment. I am afraid they say they do not provide such a service.The centre also say they are not commisioned to provide a Sensory Assessment.I can try asking for funding but this doesnt usually work.Let me know."
I am just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for next steps, or has been in a similar situation?
My employer is more than happy to go via the private route or if there are any options to secure funding/grants for the OT assessments, but I feel a bit out my depth so would like to see if anyone else has been through this.
Thanks in advance!
Yeah, I've been diagnosed for nearly 18 years and there was no support as an adult. Still isn't. My therapist isn't really a support system in that sense but she's been the most support I've had autism wise.
When I did CBT the most recent time, they said they'd go for an autism focus. Didn't last long. Had a session of acceptance and commitment therapy before the person said we'll put the autism stuff to one side...
I think you generally get an idea from the beginning, as you should. Hopefully you do.
Thanks for the suggestion, I'll have a look into this!
Thanks, HMO. :-)
The frustrating thing I think about the whole process is actually finding any support! It's never really made clear post-diagnosis where to go or who to reach out to.
I have been given a contact to go onto waitlist for therapy and was told to mention my autism, that way I should get given a therapist that specialises in autism - so fingers crossed for that side of things!
I've had CBT before pre-diagnosis when I was falsely diagnosed with an anxiety/panic disorder and not autism - I hated CBT, would rather not do that again haha.
Maybe you can get an Access to Work or similar assessment through the local Job Centre Plus?
I can only speak for myself, but seeking a person-centred therapist (who is also autistic) has been a lifeline.
I did have CBT but it didn't do it for me. I appreciate that the structured approach may work for others though.