Evening All, We have our 1st appointment with Ed Psych. What should we expect?

[waitingforgodot]

DS suspected ASD (aged 3). What kind of thing should we expect in the assessment?

[daisy5678]

Hmmm...EP here was able to make a lot of comments about J, but they were largely based on what I and nursery/ school staff has said. Apart from that, the 3 EPs J has had have administered a number of tests, which told us that he had severe behavioural problems (could have told them that ) and that he was of good intelligence. A few useful strategies suggested for home and school but nothing earth-shattering. Also, the first 2 EPs, who both saw J numerous times, totally missed any suggestion of autism and I am that the one who was most recently involved did not have the grace to look embarassed when I last saw him.

So I don't have the highest opinion of EPs. They managed to note the behaviour, lack of eye contact and the lack of social skills but make no suggestion that ASD should be investigated. Oh, and their suggestions are always made with the local authority's budget in mind, which means they're less than impartial...

J's first assessment was at age 3 as well. She came to the house and talked and played with him. Then went to nursery and did the same. She was very nice; I just feel a bit let down by the numerous people who saw us and never thought to consider why J behaved as he did.
Hope it goes well!

[waitingforgodot]

thanks Starlight and moresleep.
We have already had the GARS assessment.
My understanding is that the Ed Psych needs to provide a report for the diagnosis so may be that and also to discuss if current nursery provision is adequate.

[daisy5678]

The system does that to you!

But luckily, there are the odd good ones out there, who are knowlegable and honest. Fingers crossed, WFG, that you get one.

[waitingforgodot]

I took your advice before Starlight and record absolutely everything.
I wont be agreeing with anything I dont think is acceptable. I am aware that the professionals like to try and fit DS into a category which is not necessarily him but dont get me started please!!
Starlight-You mentioned no OT availability. Snap! Did you write a letter of complaint? This is on my to do list for this week. Shockingly bad lack of uniformity to early intervention.

[waitingforgodot]

ooh tell me more. I asked on the other post about Brainwave too. Whats the difference?
Someone said they didnt feel BIBIC was geared up for ASD. Did you find that?

[TotalChaos]

DS saw an ed psych as part of his joint clinic appointment. ed psych listened to background about DS, watched him play, and did some non-verbal intelligence tests with him. As he did OK at the intelligence tests we never saw her again. Agree with Starlight about quizzing them about plans for statementing.

[waitingforgodot]

That sounds really positive. My DS def has sensory issues however change in diet has reduced a few of the stimming behaviours. Have you started ABA yet?