POST DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT
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Presentation Transcript
POST DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT Martine L Marshallsay
POLICY FRAMEWORK • National Autism Plan for Children (NAPC) 2003 • A.S.D. Strategic Action Plan for Wales 2008 • N.I.C.E. Clinical Guidelines 2011
AIMS OF SESSION • Giving the diagnosis • Support after diagnosis • Support after non-diagnosis • Diagnosis in Teenage Years
DIAGNOSIS • “When parents finally realise their child has autism, when they realise that in a sense they have ‘lost’ the child they thought they were going to have, they often feel overwhelmed by a sense of despair and depression, coupled with anxiety about their child’s future” (Baron-Cohen, Bolton. 1994)
GIVING THE DIAGNOSIS • Who is giving the diagnosis? • Who is receiving the diagnosis? • Consider timing of appointment • Establish knowledge and awareness of family
GIVING THE DIAGNOSIS • Discuss the results of assessments • Discuss the rationale for diagnosis or non-diagnosis • Allow time for questions and discussion • Give initial written information
PARENTS’ PERSPECTIVE • Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley
POST DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT • Planned further opportunity to discuss diagnosis • Contact telephone numbers of appropriate professionals • Information about process and services • Information about support groups and organisations
DIAGNOSIS IN TEENAGE YEARS • Who is the best person to give the diagnosis? • What post diagnostic support is available? • A difficult time!
DAVID • Diagnosis confirmed at 15 • David received diagnosis at 17 • Managing the situation • Support for the family
HARRY • Diagnosis at 15 • Positive impact on school life for Harry • Future opportunities • Knowledge = Relief
PARENTS’ PERSPECTIVE Celebrating Holland – I’m home! By Cathy Anthony