Hi there, I have a daughter who is an older teenager. She was referred to a paediatric consultant through NHS for investigation of Autism and/or ADHD and their initial tests indicated positive for both but that was not a full diagnosis, just early tests (based upon questionnaires, some quick ADHD eye tracking test and a very detailed discussion/questioning with the consultant, who was excellent). She was then referred for diagnosis, but we have heard it could be a 2-year wait. I am thinking of going private for both diagnosis and to get some support for her. She is very high functioning but hitting a brick wall in some of her education so this is starting to get more urgent. All this is very new for me so I am confused what to do, if anyone can help with these questions it would be great!
- If I go for private diagnosis with a registered team, will this be fed back into her NHS record and recognised? How do I join up any private consultation to her NHS care? Should I contact her GP first before going ahead (trying to avoid any delay)?
- We are in the North East Essex area so a place in the Chelmsford, Colchester, Manningtree area would be best. I have seen there are Autism Anglia in Colchester and Acorn Autism in Kelvedon. Does anyone have experience with either of them? She needs some kind of support (one-2-one counselling or CBT or something) as well as diagnosis so looking for advice on services beyond just simple diagnostic services.
A dad from North East Essex