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!
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.
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?