Transcript of the Episode

Parents often ask me if it’s important to get their child diagnosed with ASD. This can be an especially difficult decision if you have a child who seems indistinguishable from their peers, but you know they struggle with things like making and keeping friends, maybe they have sensory issues or can’t keep up with classwork. Perhaps you’ve known something is just not quite right, but can’t put your finger on what. Many parents will wait until their children are 8, 9 or even older to seek help because their hope is their child will outgrow it.

The other concern is that they don’t want their kiddo to have that label of autism spectrum disorder. Well, as an experienced autism clinician and parent, I highly recommend seeking out a professional who can determine whether or not the diagnosis of autism fits your child. This would be a pediatric or developmental neurologist, or a psychologist who diagnoses autism. The diagnosis process is length and often takes more than one visit, but is worth your time and money to get an accurate one. The main reason for this is to get your child the services they will need and are entitled to; this means not only help in school, but also outside therapies. Schools won’t give you accommodations unless you have the diagnosis, insurance won’t pay for services unless you have it, and adult benefits such as supplemental security income won’t be considered if they don’t have a diagnosis.

It’s great to have hope for your child, and I want you to have that…but you can have hope AND an accurate diagnosis to ensure the best outcome for your child’s future.

Music in this episode: Happy Whistling Ukelele by Sea Stock