Kelly ~ sorry to hear you're facing this with your little girl. I totally understand the spectrum of feelings and reactions you're having (the relief mixed with the sadness etc). My DD has something different... a speech language delay. We got onto it early and she's progressing well. We, too, had a lot of people say, "You've never met a 20 year old who can't talk" etc, but early intervention in her case was what was needed.

You asked how you go about finding the right professionals to treat her. Well, I found it's best to talk to other parents in the same situation as you (maybe find a support group locally?) and then ask them who the best professionals are. I also gathered info from my paediatrician and other health professionals and made a choice from there. Perhaps those teachers who noticed it and mentioned it to you also know of professionals who have had success?

Good luck Kelly. Marisa is lucky to have a Mum like you who is willing and able to help her work through this.