Feels like a long road ahead 😞 unsupportive school

[Theirmumxx]

I’m at the very start of the process of getting a diagnosis for my DD who I believe is autistic.

A referral has been made due to massive explosive behaviour at home (anxiety, crying, excessive sensitivity/empathy even towards objects, sensory issues with clothes, separation anxiety,eating issues to name a few, unsafe impulses)

Spoke to school this morning who basically made me feel really shit. Said they weren’t seeing any of this behaviour which I know is common but then said “she’s just a worrier”, “maybe she wants attention” “maybe she wants more time with you” “she needs someone to talk to”.

Can someone please tell me what to expect from this process?? What happens now that a referral has been made?? Has anyone had issues with school shrugging it off.

Expect a long wait, waiting lists are currently two years.

We've waited over a year already.
How old is she?
Did she show any signs from a young age?

If you're correct with your suspicion, she may be masking at school and releasing at home. Schools can't diagnose, only refer. Have you got a contact name for your referral to follow up?
In the meantime, read around the subject and find out how other parents cope.

Who made the referral? What’s the process in your area?

Where I am, HV, SaLT, school or GP can refer but GP won’t pass on a referral without a supporting letter from the school. The school also have to fill in questionnaires saying what they see there.