Published on 12, July, 2020
Hello all, just need some help please. My daughter is 9yo undiagnosed. She's always struggled with severe anxiety since she was a baby and she's got Selective Mutism (also undiagnosed). Last year she had episodes of Trichotillomania (hair pulling) and the GP, school nurse and a play therapist got involved. She was also referred to CAMHS. We've had 1 face-to-face session and 2 CBT on the phone which was a disaster as she cried the whole time. Then with Covid ALL her therapies were cancelled. Now back to school her anxiety returned full force and with no support at all. She missed 2 days due to panic attack and meltdowns. Last year the GP was the first to suggest autism. The school is not convinced that she needs to be assessed for autism because she's doing well in all academic areas (of course they don't see the meltdowns after school). We honestly think that CAMHS was not helping because they insist in CBT when she's got selective mutism and can't answer back and that distress her. So, this is where I am now: I am convinced she needs to be assessed for autism. But I don't know how or where to start. CAMHS already said they would only focus on her anxiety however they are yet to resume her treatment and seems to have forgotten about her case. School seems to be in denial of her needs. So I sound like an overprotective parent trying to label my daughter. Without those two backing me up and without means to go private I don't know how can I get her tested? Should I try the GP again and ask specifically for an autism assessment that wouldn't involve CAMHS? Is it possible? Any other professional could help? Or should I try to go SENCo route? Thank you in advance.
Hi Marcia, I'm new here but I've experienced a very similar story to yours. I've been saying for many years about my eldest's behaviour. I don't have much advice because I got lucky that the youth worker noticed & started pushing the school. All that said though, We're now at final year of senior school & only now being diagnosed! First & foremost, I'd say, don't give in. Keep pestering, keep pointing things out to school, and keep a diary at home so you have evidence.
In my eldest's school the SENCO / ALNCO will not get involved until the school involve them and they are separate from CAMHS. Look up help in your area for young people (ie. a youth service - sometimes they're run by councils, sometimes referral is through school, other times it's a Charity ). I know it's exhausting trying toget them to listen but keep at it - You'll get there eventually.
All the best xx
L xx
Hi Leah, thank you so much for your input. I've started writing a long list of things we've notice she's been struggling with since she was a baby. Next time I speak to a professional I want to be prepared with some evidence. I really need her to have some support before she starts secondary school which would be a major change in her life. I'll look into other youth services that could help too. Thank you for the suggestions. xxMarcia