Receiving an autism diagnosis can be a whirlwind of emotions and information. It's crucial to feel empowered and informed throughout the process and to be an advocate for your child throughout this significant step. One of the best ways to achieve this is by asking clarifying questions.
Don't be afraid to advocate for your child–the diagnostic process is a collaboration, and your insights are priceless. As their parent or guardian, you know your child best!
We’ve compiled a list of essential questions for you to consider throughout your child’s autism diagnosis:
Pre-diagnosis question checklist:
- What specific assessments and evaluations will be used? Understanding the tools and methods used can provide clarity and reduce anxiety.
- Who will be involved in the assessment process? Knowing the team of professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, speech therapists, or occupational therapists, helps you understand the scope of the evaluation.
- What are the criteria for an autism diagnosis according to the DSM-5? Familiarizing yourself with the diagnostic criteria can help you understand the basis for the diagnosis.
- How long will the entire diagnostic process take? This helps manage expectations and plan accordingly. It is important to ask how many appointments there will be as this varies depending on the provider and how they structure their diagnostic testing.
- What is the process for receiving the final report and diagnosis? Knowing how and when you'll receive the results is essential. As a parent, you should receive the full report of the testing completed, the results, and the recommendations.
- What happens if I disagree with the assessment or diagnosis? Understanding your options for second opinions or further evaluations is crucial.
Questions to ask during the evaulation:
- What are the specific strengths and challenges identified in the assessment? A comprehensive understanding of the individual's profile is vital for developing appropriate support.
- What are the recommendations for intervention and support? This could include therapy, educational accommodations, or other resources.
- What are the potential co-occurring conditions that might be present? Autism can sometimes coexist with other conditions like ADHD, anxiety, global development delay, speech delays, or sensory processing issues.
- How does this diagnosis impact daily life? Understanding the practical implications of the diagnosis can help you prepare for future challenges and opportunities.
Post diagnosis– ask about support resources for you and your child:
- What resources and support services are available in our community? Accessing local support groups, therapists, and other resources is essential.
- Are there any specific therapies or interventions recommended? Understanding the different therapeutic approaches can help you make informed decisions.
- What educational accommodations or support services are available? This is crucial for children and adolescents in educational settings. They can provide recommendations, such as working with the school to develop an Individualised Education Plan (IEP).
- What are the options for financial assistance or insurance coverage? Navigating the financial aspects of autism support can be challenging, so asking about available resources is important.
- Are there any support groups for individuals with autism or their families? Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice. Each state has state wide and local groups that you can join or reach out to for resources.
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Heads up! Before receiving a diagnosis, it’s a great idea to note important questions you’d like to ask your physician throughout this process. We’ve compiled these questions into a handy printable question checklist for you to take with to appointments– click here to download this resource.
It is also a great idea to write notes during the assessment to remember key information from the appointment. If you have follow up questions, we recommend asking for clarification so that you feel confident in the process and information you are receiving.
Communicate your questions, concerns, and thoughts to the diagnosing physician– you know your child best. The autism diagnosis process is the first step in getting answers, accessing resources and services, and advocating for your child. By asking the right questions, you can empower yourself to navigate this diagnosis journey with greater confidence and clarity.
Seeking ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) after an autism evaluation:
After your child receives an autism diagnosis, depending on the recommendations in the report, you may want to consider starting ABA therapy. ABA is an individualized, evidence-based treatment for autism that focuses on modifying specific behaviors and improving skills. It is the gold-standard of treatment for children with autism and approved by the US Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association.
- ABA therapy uses principles of learning and behavior to bring about meaningful changes in behavior. It is individualised to meet the needs of each child and can address a wide range of skills, including communication, social skills, self-management, and functional living skills.
- Selecting an ABA provider is a crucial step in ensuring your child receives the best possible care. You want to evaluate providers to ensure that they are a good fit for your family, have qualified and experienced professionals, and align with your values.
- ABA therapy can be collaborative with other therapies, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and counseling. Coordination and collaboration between treatment providers can provide a comprehensive, holistic approach to addressing your child’s needs.
- In the intake process and initial assessment you will work with your ABA provider to set goals for your child. These goals should be specific, measurable, and tailored to your child’s strengths and needs as well as age-appropriate developmental milestones. This plan will be a working document, and will evolve over time as your child’s needs and skills progress.
- Family and caregiver involvement is a critical component of ABA therapy. Your ABA provider should offer support to help you implement strategies at home and reinforce the skills your child is learning in therapy. They will give you tools and model the programs for you so that we are all working together on the goals for therapy.
At Powerback Pediatrics, we are here to answer your questions throughout the diagnosis process. We can assist with finding a diagnosing practitioner in your area and accessing services after you have received the diagnosis. Has your child been diagnosed with autism? Connect with Powerback Pediatrics to begin ABA Therapy by calling (888) 269-9876, or filling out our intake form.
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