Traits of autism

Y had her evaluation last month at the Fraser Center. The same two psychologists who evaluated J back in 2003 evaluated Y too. And like before, with J, they gave me more information in three hours than I got from the U of M in two visits. They were much more pleasant too. Their evaluation was much more in depth than the U of M's, so were the tests Y took. At least they seemed to be. In the end we were told Y has definite autistic traits but not nearly enough to give her a diagnosis.

This didn't surprise either one of us at all.

We were also told Y has OCD traits, but there too, not enough to give her a diagnosis.

The Sensory Integration was addressed too and given a closer look and consideration. The doctors both told me I was right to believe Y's SID affects her performance in school; affects her day to day life in general. They told me taking my lead from J regarding SID was a smart thing to do. From that they were able to give us a list of occupational therapist that Y can choose from to consider and see. This made Y very happy.

They looked over summaries from evaluations from other doctors and acknowledged Y's ADHD and depression and how, combined, they affect her school performance. The doctors mentioned how they thought Y getting involved in OT would help that. I brought up the fact that the U of M focused almost solely on her anger and what we saw as an over-exaggerated concern for it. Both doctors said they didn't see her anger as the issue and concern the U made it out to be. The one in particular said she thought Y's anger was related to her depression and SID. Those combined can cause anger issues. As long as she continues to see a cognitive therapist who she likes and is comfortble with she'll be fine. I asked if OT would help that and she said it might.

So, overall, it was a good appointment. We got answers that will help Y now and in the future. Once I get the summary I'm giving a copy to the high school and insisting Y get evaluated by the district. I was already told that will most likely happen once the summary is received. The school psychologist is giving it some serious consideration. I'm going to tell him to go ahead with it and that I want it done anyway. If I can get Y an IEP or 504 Accommodation Plan that will guarantee she continues to receive accommodations I will be very happy. Y will be too.