Needing recommendations or advice please!
Hey there everyone! Who can I talk to or get pointed in the right direction to get my 4 yr old occupation therapy or some type of help? Nobody (therapist, doctors) seems to hear me when I tell them she needs SOMETHING! A psychiatrist told me she has severe ADHD for sure but couldn’t diagnose her at this age. I’m doing more damage than helping her at this point. I just feel hopeless and brushed off and I want my babygirl and me to get the help she needs! Has anyone gone through this?
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I worked as a service coordinator in PA and my youngest client was 4. He was diagnosed with autism, plus ADHD. I’m not sure if he was diagnosed so early because of the severity but I do know that some mental health concerns CAN BE addressed early on. Maybe attempt to sign her up for early head start and see if they have services for kids with special needs/interest. I’m sorry you feel unheard, but don’t give up mama! You’re doing the right thing for your kid.
It doesn't make sense that a psychiatrist would say she absolutely has a severe condition but won't give a diagnosis - I mean, that is a diagnosis and kids are definitely diagnosed around age 4, especially if it's severe. A child therapist should be able to help you with whatever the behavioral issues are, regardless of an official diagnosis. Depending on your state/insurance you may or may not require a referral to a specialist, but probably worth finding a child OT center (they after do speech therapy as well) and contacting them directly to see what your options are.
At 4 years old you should be able to contact Child Find through your local school district. They will test her and see if she qualifies for services. Those would be at no cost to you.
Beyond that get a referral from your pediatrician for an OT. She’s your daughter. They should listen and just send a referral. If they refuse, find a new doctor.
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