How do I get a professional diagnosis of Aspergers Syndrome or Autism?
A medical diagnosis needs to come from someone with skills and training in developmental disabilities. This can include developmental pediatricians, neurologists, and psychologists. Occupational Therapists (OTs) can aid in treatment before or after a diagnosis is determined. However, from an occupational therapy point of view, a diagnosis isn’t necessary–we focus on helping a child function with their current conditions regardless of diagnosis. A diagnosis is helpful (and may be necessary) for obtaining school special education services or for your medical insurance to provide or pay for treatment. Question: I am pretty certain our 3 year old son has some degree of sensory integration disorder. A few people over the last year have mentioned, after spending time with him, that he may have a sensory disorder. I recently picked up a book on Sensory Integration and what I have read so far sounds a lot like J. We have Tricare Insurance. Do you know if we need to get a referral from our Pri