Seeking advice on getting an ASD diagnosis, steps to follow and any other useful tips re therapies

[LilVee]

I would be very grateful for some practical tips and advice on how to go from suspecting ASD in a 7 year old girl through to diagnosis and putting in place appropriate support. She is very high functioning, masks extremely well, comes across as extremely mature and is 'off the scale' on standardised academic tests so possibly '2e or dual exceptionality'. She struggles with sensory issues (clothes and general overwhelm) in particular as well as anxiety around change and new situations.

We are fortunate enough to be able to afford a private assessment and have recently moved to a new area so don't know the GP at all. We have spoken to the school already.

I was thinking we should do the following but if anyone thinks I'm missing anything I'd be very grateful for any advice or tips:

1. Book private assessment.
2. Inform GP?
3. Stay in contact with school (who are putting in place some emotional support for the next academic year).
4. Consider any talking or alternative therapies that might assist with regulation and anxiety.
5. Look into how nutrition or supplements might otherwise assist with ASD?

Thanks so much for your help.

Support in schools is based on needs, not diagnosis. School must make their best endeavours to meet a pupil’s SEN, diagnosis or no diagnosis. If necessary, you can request an EHCNA.

SALT, OT, ed psych assessments will help.

Some private assessments like a GP referral.

Hi there,

I was wondering if you managed to get an assessment for your little girl. I suspect mine is 2e too (masks super well and super bright but some difficulties transitioning and controlling emotions at school). If so, could you please share the details of the assessor you used? I am having a hard time finding assessors with 2e expertise in and around London.

Thanks