I was "diagnosed" by a psychotherapist

[pelecanus87]

She explained that her opinion "counts" according to some standard. I can't remember what this is and I just tried to look it up.

Should I consider myself diagnosed? The diagnosis sure makes a lot of sense.

 

[Judge]

Let's just say that if I were to seek a formal diagnosis, I'd want one from a board-certified physician, specializing in neurology or psychiatry. Though I know there are those who have been diagnosed as such by therapists without an MD.

Valid or not? That's not for me to pronounce absolute judgment over.

I'd say to much of anyone that's an issue between you and the person who diagnosed you. Though whatever qualifications and professional standing one may have, there are no guarantees. Especially with a global professional medical community which doesn't rely on a single protocol when it comes to their respective diagnostic process.

 

[Gritches]

Valid or not, I don't know, but 20 bucks says her "standard" is having an autistic son or nephew.

 

[kay]

If the government accepts it should you need anything like accommodations, and you agree, seems ok. There is no blood test and self diagnosis tends to be fairly accurate. I have two evaluations. Are they the best? Well, I didn't get to go to an autism specialist because, I couldn't. However, the first psychologist spent months figuring it out. She ruled out every possible alternative explanation and her opinion counted when I sought government services. The second evaluation had more prepackaged assessments to fill out and standardized questions to ask because it was years later. There were two people involved who have familiarity with autism, but not specialist. I actually prefer the first opinion because I think she really had more interest in figuring me out. I liked that psychologist, but she went back East and I haven't ever found anyone I like so well.

 

[Lifesahaze]

I guess it would help to know her background/experience/understanding/training in autism - and what she means by her experience 'counting'. If you feel she has sufficient understanding and specialism (rather than, as Gritches said, a niece/nephew with autism) then it's also worth considering whether you need any adjustments/support and whether her background would be sufficient to give weight to the diagnosis. I have worked in education before, and only certain practitioners would be allowed - both in education and by the local authorities - to provide a diagnosis.
Did the psychotherapist provide you with anything in writing? It's good to have something written, just to hold on to! I know that when I had my assessment, I couldn't believe anything she'd said until she'd sent me a report.

 

[toothless]

one of my support staff is in the pyschology world and he has just told me psychotherapists arent medically trained and doesnt think she has the understanding or authority to give off a 'formal' diagnosis but may give you an 'informal' diagnosis.
he said he cant be certain but he is very sure.

 

[Grandmother B]

She explained that her opinion "counts" according to some standard. I can't remember what this is and I just tried to look it up.

Should I consider myself diagnosed? The diagnosis sure makes a lot of sense.

My grandson was diagnosed by a neuropsychologist, if that helps any. We are in the USA so that might make a difference as to whether you qualify for services or not, if you are in the UK. Best of luck!

 

[artfull dodger]

Alot depends on where you live and if in the USA, what state. In Indiana where I am, that is who originaly diagnosed me, and she is licensed by the state to make such diagnosis. But when I applied for approval for vocational rehab, they had me see thier own Dr, and after a half hour question and answer session, he confirmed her diagnosis. Mike