How do I get DS evaluated?

[Qestia]

He is 5 and in K on an IEP. He receives OT and speech twice a week. They are also currently evaluating him for ADHD.

DH and I have decided we'd like an independent evaluation to take place and not rely on the school--especially since we disagree with the ADHD label--he simply doesn't have most of the behaviors on the checklist and I feel like they are pushing this because it's easier for them.

He does have speech problems and he definitely has a lot of sensory-seeking behavior, spins his head around when sitting too long, falls out of his chair because he is making it lean, is never content to stand solid on two feet if there's something else he could be doing with his feet...

Who am I looking for? A psychologist? An independent OT? Should I just ask my pediatrician?

We are fortunate to be in the Boston area so once we figure out what kind of person we're looking for, we should be able to find one.

And once we have this evaluation, how do I share it with the school?

[SpottedFoxx]

Boston Children's Hospital probably has a behavioral department that specializes in doing ADHD evaluations.  I'd start there.

[Qestia]

thanks. I guess I don't want to just evaluate him for ADHD but also find out what his issue really is--SPD or what. Could any one person do that sort of diagnosis?

[Emmeline II]

Originally Posted by Qestia 

thanks. I guess I don't want to just evaluate him for ADHD but also find out what his issue really is--SPD or what. Could any one person do that sort of diagnosis?

A developmental-behavioral pediatrician, which is likely what is available at the hospital the pp mentioned. I don't think SPD is a separate diagnosis so those issues would be included as part of another diagnosis.

[Qestia]

thank you--I think that's exactly what I was looking for.

[melissa17s]

My ds was dxed by a psychologist.  She gave him a series of exams called a neuropsych exam. A large part of the exam was an IQ test.  We were referred by ds' neurologist.  The psychologist recommended OT and the neurologist referred us.  You could ask your pediatrician for a referral because they may work with other peds or psychologists.  

[SpottedFoxx]

SPD isn't recognized (yet) as a stand alone diagnosis.  There is a lot of controversy around SPD and whether or not it's a "real" disorder.  I'd request an appointment with a developmental pediatrician.  Don't be shocked at the wait time.  Depending on the area, it could be from 3-24 months.  However, once you are established with a doctor, it's a lot easier.  Start with a DP and then they will refer you as necessary.