We have been with CAMHS for a number of years. Three years ago my daughter had her first ASD assessment. The assessment concluded as inconclusive as my daughter was non verbal. We made a complaint to the trust that the test was not suitable for a nonverbal child, and seeing the trust knew she was non-verbal the test was inappropriate. There is more to the story but the complaint was investigated by an external investigator who found the trust at fault. We received an apology from the trust acknowledging the mishandling of the process.
Moving on, last year we were placed with the neurodevelopment team. Today our 10-year-old daughter went for her first 3-hour assessment. The psychologist said a definite diagnosis would not be made as she is nonverbal and only part of the test could be completed. The best we would receive would be a 'Could be' diagnosis. we received an official apology for the years and the neurodevelopment team.
I'm obviously not very happy as it seems a repeat of her first assessment done when she was 7. What would you do as a parent in my situation? My daughter has another three-hour session next week and is reluctant to place her under more stress when a formal diagnosis still cannot be made.
Shouldn't there be provisions put in place knowing that she is non-verbal (e.g using flashcards, Makaton, etc). Isn't there a different test that should be used? I'm feeling furious atm as it seems a repeat of the failings previously.
Your help and advice is very much appreciated. Please help.
Paul.
