April 20, 2005

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  6 years has passed…but we haven’t forgotten

  
  

  

  
  

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  Autism Info:

  
  

  Consulting with Professionals

  
  

  Whether you or your child’s pediatrician is the first to suspect autism, your child will need to be referred to someone who specializes in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders. This may be a developmental pediatrician, a psychiatrist or psychologist. Other professionals may be included who are better able to observe and test your child in specific areas.

  
  

  This multidisciplinary assessment team may include some or all of the following professionals. They may also be involved in treatment programs.

  
  

  
  
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    Developmental pediatrician – Treats health problems of children with developmental delays or handicaps.

    
    
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    Child psychiatrist – A medical doctor who may be involved in the initial diagnosis; can prescribe medication and provide help in behavior, emotional adjustment and social relationships

    
    
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    Clinical psychologist – Specializes in understanding the nature and impact of developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders. May perform psychological and assessment tests and may help with behavior modification and social skills training.

    
    
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    Occupational therapist – Focuses on practical, self-help skills that will aid in daily living such as dressing, eating; may work on sensory integration, coordination of movement, and fine motor skills.

    
    
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    Physical therapist – Helps to improve the use of bones, muscles, joints, and nerves to develop muscle strength, coordination and motor skills.

    
    
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    Speech/language therapist – Involved in the improvement of communication skills including speech and language.

    
    
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    Social Worker – May provide counseling services or act as case manager helping to arrange services.

  
  

  It is important that parents and professionals work together for the child’s benefit. While professionals will use their experience and training to make recommendations about your child’s treatment options, you have unique knowledge about his/her needs and abilities.

  
  

  Once a treatment program is in place, communication between parents and professionals is essential to monitor the child’s progress. Here are some guidelines for working with professionals:

  
  

  
  
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    Be informed. Learn as much as you can about your child’s disability so you can be an active participant in determining care. If you don’t understand terms used by professionals, ask for clarification.

    
    
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    Be prepared. Be prepared for meetings with doctors, therapists, and school personnel. Write down your questions and concerns, and then note the answers.

    
    
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    Be organized. Many parents find it useful to keep a notebook detailing their child’s diagnosis and treatment as well as meetings with professionals.

    
    
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    Communicate. It’s important to ensure open communication – both good and bad. If you don’t agree with a professional’s recommendation, for example, say specifically why you don’t.

  
  

  Getting Past the Diagnosis

  
  

  Often, the time immediately after the diagnosis is a difficult one for families, filled with confusion, anger and despair. These are normal feelings. But there is life after a diagnosis of autism. Life can be rewarding for a child with autism and all the people who have the privilege of knowing the child. While it isn’t always easy, you can learn to help your child find the world an interesting and loving place.

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