Private OT in Reading/Berks / Oxon?

[TCsMummy]

My DS has been diagnosed as having Developmental Coordination Disorder (which I believe is dyspraxia by another name). His issues are mainly physical coordination but a little on the social side (not verbal). I'm wary of the lead time on getting an NHS Occupational Therapy appointment - he starts primary school in September and I'd like to have seen someone before then so I can talk actions not problems with school. Can anyone recommend a private OT in the Reading / Berkshire / Oxfordshire areas?
Thanks

Sorry no recommendations but you might find the OTIP directory helpful.

Hi, don't have recommendations either but my DS2 has recently been diagnosed with dyspraxia and is coming to the end of reception.

Are you wary because of experience with the OT service in the area, or just generally worried? The reception teacher suggested we ask for a referral in March, and I was impressed by how quickly we had initial assessment, school visit and plan sorted with teachers for 10 minutes one-to-one work each day, with 4 x 1 hour one-to-one therapy with the OT starting in a couple of weeks. All on the NHS, all really well integrated with school, and with the general opinion that the key is to catch the children before they go into year 1( I assume from your post your DS is starting reception in September?).

Anyway, that's a bit longwinded but it might just be worth finding out what the timeframe is for NHS help before you do anything else. Good luck.

Alana39, I'm wary because of timescales. I've no prior experience of OT here or elsewhere! Getting from preschool suggestion to GP to Paediatrician appointment has been pretty quick, about 4 weeks, but Paed says 4-5 months for initial appointment with OT which will then lead to a management plan being put together. It is unlikely to happen before he starts reception in September, and I'm happier with the idea of understanding the plan / therapy he needs before school starts rather than after. I think that in our area they don't do school integration until after 5 (his birthday is 31st Aug so he won't be 5 until the end of his 1st year at school), or if he gets a statement. Plus I've seen comments from people in some areas that it is taking them 18months - 2 years to get OT help.
I guess I just want to get on with it now I know what the problem is!

Completely understand, I didn't realise we had been so lucky.

Have you asked your health visitor / GP about private OTs? I know you're looking for a recommendation but they might know other parents that have used OTs and come back with favourable reports.

I know a highly recommended OT in Tadley (nr Basingstoke) - specialises in SI & ASD - will get details (on email I can;'t access atm) if you're interested.

Phlebas, there was an OT in Tadley listed on the OTIP directory from the first reply - is this the one (Carolyne Oates)? I know Tadley and it is quite close to us. Always forget how many counties we are close to!