I thought I would just quickly introduce myself in here rather than hijack someone else's thread!
My DD (4) was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder and Aspergers Tendencies earlier this year. We have been seeing an OT, but only sporadically, and thats going to end soon because she is retiring. I am also in the process of getting her a complete assessment for the 'tendencies' that were mentioned at diagnosis.
I am still new to all this, and still in the trial-and-error phase of working out what the heck she needs! She is a combo-kid and one second wont be the same as the next. She also has sleep issues. GAH!
Anyway, I look forward to forming new friendships and learning lots!!!!!
Sounds like a full on time for you. Is the OT able to refer you to somebody else before they retire?
I work as a psych in Vic and did some specific training on Asperger's and Autism in Canberra. I remember that Canberra seemed to have quite good services available to families, but this differs between states. I'm not sure what's available in Adelaide? Hopefully somebody else on BB may be able to give you some more info for your area and that you can link in to some good supports for your DD
We initially went to HeadStart Intervention, but we did not complete a diagnostic assessment as the Psych felt that she didn't 'have' Aspergers, so we just dealt with the behavioural issues (or tried to). Once we filled out a SSP (short sensory profile) she recommended that we see and OT so we headed off to the Womens and Childrens Hospital OT. We see her every 6 weeks and that is soon to end. Apparently, in order to see the new OT (once they get one) I need to get another referal from my GP and wait again! I have organised with a Private OT to start seeing her at the end of the year, but thats going to send me broke but nevermind.
I asked my GP to get us a referal to the Childrens Assessment Team at Flinders Medical Centre, so I am just waiting to hear back from them once they have gone through my paperwork. IF they think she needs an assessment, only then will we go on the waiting list. It's a long drawn out process, but I just don't have the funds to get a full assessment privately.
I figure if I know everything thats going on with her, then we can work with OT to ensure she leads the fullest life possible. If I miss something, that could seriously impact on her life!
I have a 16 yr old son as well and it's hard trying to juggle his 'teen' issues with DD's.
Its overwhelming isn't it. Trying to deal with all your kids different personalities, ages & needs all at the same time!
DD2 is SPD/ADHD. She's really struggling right now. The OT we saw did a full assessment, but we really didn't get much more out of her. I need to sort something else out, soon.
You'll figure out what works & what doesn't in your own time. You just need lots & lots & lots of patience!
In regards to OT sessions, ask for a mental health care plan, or an enhanced primary care plan (EPC). With the EPC you can get 5 subsidised sessions a year with an OT or other regular specialist (psycologist etc) & with the mental health care plan you can get 12. Thats 17 sessions that are about half the full price. Then you can claim back what you do pay on Medicare as well. Mine worked out to be $20 a session in the end, after the initial assessment costs. This was in NSW though, so not sure what would be on offer in SA. I'm sure they'd have something similar.
Have you tried Early Childhood Intervention? Also a NSW thing, but they should have something similar in SA.
Here's the Autism SA page. Not sure if you're close to them, or already in contact, but the number on the page may be of use to you.
You might be able to apply for centrelink benifits to help with the costs of sessions too. Carer's allowance or payment.
Unfortunately I'm not eligible for carers payment as SPD isn't recognized as a standalone disorder.
I have used a MHCP and will be getting another one when we go private.
I tried early intervention but they were so slack and just sent me round in circles!
Because the OT can't diagnose ASD issues that's why we are going to the CAT (hopefully)
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Beginning our Journey with SPD
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