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Private assessment

Louise1980

Hi again, so we have been referred to CAHMS from our gp for our 14 year old daughter who we suspect has ASD. 
the doctor was happy to do a referral And school support are also supporting this. But our GP has said it could take up to a year to get a diagnosis...my husband works within a prison and has spoken to there mental health team who have recommended someone who does private work. The cost is £1200. Now of course We are willing to do anything to support our daughter and school can only get help from SENCO if she has a diagnosis although things are being put in place to support her within the school. I guess what im asking is it worth it or do we wait. I’m nearly 100% that my daughter is ASD and so is she. We can’t really afford it but I would like things in place before her gcse. There is a little niggle that what if she isn’t and is just quirky and we spent all this money ( feel very wrong writing that). Sorry for the ramble, just feel very confused by everything at the moment

Parents

  • My main question would be, is she happy how things are?

    On balance of probability from what you said, you have a good understanding of your daughter and open communication both ways, which is the most important thing.

    So relax, you got this off to a great start :)

    Unless there are any signs of distress around her school life, don't panic.

    If you do want something more to get on with, encouraging creative/alternate forms of expression she may enjoy is always good.

  • in reply to Autistic Entrepreneur

    She isn’t happy if I’m honest, she has always felt different and now feels that she wants answers. School is extremely difficult due to it being busy and loud and she feels very exhausted each day when she comes home. She also struggles with noises in the class room such as people tapping and people kicking chairs. Home life is complicated due to Certain things but too much to go into here. We have a great relationship and I’m so pleased that she is able to communicate how she feels and how we can potentially help. Still unsure as to what we do with the assessment x

  • in reply to Louise1980

    Are there any options of somewhere with smaller classes or less activity? Also is it possible to for her to move some of her written work to a normally unused or quiet room? I know you said adjustments were in place but just checking.

    Is she allowed headphones? Things like that if do-able can make a much more affordable solution, and often better in long run.

    Also I'd look at attitude of staff where she may end up if you get the early assessment, one thing I've noticed in my research is those of us who use the language of disability over difference for example and up with more prominent anxiety and depression. Try to make sure they emphasis making most of strengths as much if not more then overcoming weaknesses. Otherwise it may trade one problem for another.

    Sorry I can't give more definitive answers

Reply
  • in reply to Louise1980

    Are there any options of somewhere with smaller classes or less activity? Also is it possible to for her to move some of her written work to a normally unused or quiet room? I know you said adjustments were in place but just checking.

    Is she allowed headphones? Things like that if do-able can make a much more affordable solution, and often better in long run.

    Also I'd look at attitude of staff where she may end up if you get the early assessment, one thing I've noticed in my research is those of us who use the language of disability over difference for example and up with more prominent anxiety and depression. Try to make sure they emphasis making most of strengths as much if not more then overcoming weaknesses. Otherwise it may trade one problem for another.

    Sorry I can't give more definitive answers

Children