I
understand your caution about working through the public schools -- it is very
typical for homeschool families. Let me offer a perspective that may
help you decide what to do about getting an evaluation. If your son had
puzzling physical symptoms that "might"
indicate a certain disorder or disease, would you be content to wonder
and see how he progresses (or does not seem to be getting better)? I
suspect you would want a specific diagnosis -- and your reasoning would
be that without a diagnosis by a well-trained professional, you would
not be certain you were providing the most specific and appropriate
care! The situation with autism is really very similar. You are not
looking for a "label" - you need a complete and thorough diagnosis in
order to ensure your plans to help him are right "on point". Having a
diagnosis from a professional will also open doors for the intensive
therapy that is indicated by his non-verbal status right now. I cannot
speak to insurance for such therapy - the whole autism/insurance
coverage for therapies seems a mixed bag right now. The public schools
can do a comprehensive evaluation that in no way obligates you to use
any of their services, speech/language therapies, etc. |
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