Feedback from Social Communication assessment

[TheLittleMe]

My DD has had a multi disciplinary panel assessment for Social Communication Disorder/ASD, and I have been called to a meeting with the Dr on Tuesday. Has anyone been to one of these, and does anyone know what I can expect? We have been told it is to discuss the diagnosis. I guess this is where it all really seems real!

[BackforGood]

I do think these vary from one authority to the next, but my experience is that you will get any diagnoses that have been made. You will get a report, which sets out the difficulties, but also suggests strategies going forward. You will get the chance to ask questions. Hopefully you will be signposted to further support (will depend on area, but may be parents support groups, may be courses about autism - if that is the diagnosis - may be putting you in touch with the NAS. All depends what is offered in your area).

[franincisco]

^Yes to this. Or on the other hand they may say your dc does not meet the criteria.

[TheLittleMe]

Thanks for your comments. The meeting is tomorrow, so I will update on the outcome

[Msqueen33]

Hope it goes okay. Ours is slightly different in that the assessment lasts four hours and we're told at the end.

[TheLittleMe]

Had the meeting - autism diagnosis. Is it normal not to be told whether she is mild or severe?
I knew this was the diagnosis she would get but I have been crying all afternoon. I guess I feel relieved as well as sad for her and her future.

[Msqueen33]

Big hugs. They generally don't place on the spectrum as they can move about and there's so much grey between low and high functioning.

Look after yourself and be kind to yourself xx

[BackforGood]

There's something about a diagnosis that removes doubt. It's very normal to have a good cry.
I wouldn't expect a 'grade' of autism, no. Apart from anything else, a person might have greater needs in one area (say sensory needs) and lesser needs in another area (say language) - it's not so straightforwards as 'mild' or 'severe'.