ASSESSMENTS - GETTING DIAGNOSED FOR ASD OR ADHD, ETC.
WHO CAN PROVIDE A DIAGNOSIS?
First of all, a psychotherapist or social worker cannot provide a diagnosis. The Ontario Government website states, “Qualified professionals who have undergone specific training can assess and diagnose individuals. These professionals include, but are not limited to:
- doctors, such as family physicians, pediatricians, developmental pediatricians and psychiatrists
- psychologists and psychological associates
- Nurse practitioners
THE HUMAN BRAIN IS AS DIVERSE AS THE HUMAN FINGER PRINT
– VICTORIA MCGOVERN
HOW DO I DO THIS?
Generally, there are two paths: a psychologist or a psychiatrist. A psychologist is in a private practice, which means the assessment for the diagnosis comes with a cost, and there is a broad range of options for fees. As for a psychiatrist, you would see your GP (family doctor) to receive a referral. A psychiatrist is covered by OHIP if you live in Ontario. There is no fee. However, generally, there is a long waiting list.
One can receive a diagnosis from their family doctor, a pediatrician and nurse practitioners as well. This is a valid diagnosis. However, it does not necessarily assist in areas of accommodations in workplaces or schools.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?
If you chose the path of a psychiatrist, you will likely have a long wait. The approach is often a recommendation of medication and a suggestion to proceed in psychotherapy, such as CBT or other modalities. The assessment itself is often done in one visit that proceed for approximately an hour, finishing with the diagnosis However, not all psychiatrists proceed in this manner and will take further time to proivde a thorough assessment and more accuraate diagnosis. .
If you chose a psychologist, you will likely have an assessment with a shorter wait time. It is extensively thorough that generally includes you and a loved one or close friend. There will be 2-3 interviews, plus multiple questionnaires that cover a broad amount of possibilities. So, areas such as anxiety, depression, etc will be explored along side an ADHD and/or ASD assessment. You will receive a report that is generally extensive with accommodations recommended.
Adult psychological assessments for possible diagnosis in ADHD and/or ASD are becoming more common. Particularly because it has become common for women to diagnosed later in life, as well as all individuals.
Neurodiversity is currently considered a disorder. Yet, it is a difference in train of thought or ‘rewering’ of the mind. Most do not see this as a disorder, just a difference in how people are treated.
NEURODIVERSITY REFERS TO THE DIVERSITY OF WAYS IN WHICH PEOPLE THINK, LEARN AND RELATE TO OTHERS
PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENTS
A psychoeducational assessment involves a standardized assessment of a child’s intellectual and academic abilities. It is administered by a psychologist or psychometrist and combined with clinical interviews, observations, and historical records to help understand how your child learns, and identify if and how they’re struggling.
It measures overall aptitude and academic achievement around core skills, such as reading, writing and math. It involves a number of techniques, including pencil and paper activities, verbal responses, and the evaluation of motor skills (e.g., drawing, playing with blocks). The assessment varies based on a child’s age.
The results can help the psychologist understand a child’s potential (i.e., if they are gifted or have a learning disability) and provide strategies to support them. During these assessments, other concerns are also evaluated, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or anxiety, and recommendations for your child are based on a combination of standardized test results and the evaluation of psychosocial and/or mental health issues.
