Differences between Educational Eligibility & Clinical Diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder
When it comes to concerns about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), understanding the difference between educational eligibility and clinical diagnosis can be a daunting task. Each approach has its unique strengths and weaknesses, and it's important to navigate this journey with compassion and patience, understanding that nothing is a one size fits all approach.
First, let’s talk about Educational Eligibility…
Schools must follow IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) to address academic-related disability concerns. To qualify for special education services, a child must 1) have a disability, and 2) require specialized instruction in order to make progress. Assessments completed in the schools look at both of these components, and are typically completed by a team including a school psychologist, diagnostician, speech therapist, and/or other school personnel.
There are 13 disability categories in which a child may qualify in order to receive special education services. However, a disability alone is not enough to qualify for special education services. The child must also be found to have educational needs related to the disability that significantly impact educational outcomes. If your child is found eligible for special education services, they may access resources like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and individualized education plans (IEPs) to support their needs in an educational setting. IDEA educational evaluations can be completed by the school district at no cost to parents, which is an asset to parents seeking educational support for a child.
Educational assessments focus on a child's academic performance and how their potential Autism traits impact their ability to learn in a classroom. This academic focus may not capture the full spectrum of ASD-related challenges. While often extremely thorough, educational eligibility assessments do not provide a clinical diagnosis of Autism. This can sometimes be frustrating for parents seeking a definitive answer about their child's condition.
Next, let’s talk about Clinical Diagnosis…
Clinical assessments involve a thorough evaluation by a trained clinician, who considers various aspects of a child's behavior, development, and social interactions. Clinicians use the DSM-V (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual- 5) in order to make diagnostic determinations. This diagnostic system is recognized by doctors, insurance companies, and other legal entities; and therefore a clinical diagnosis often opens doors to a broader range of therapeutic services, including behavioral therapies, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, not limited to the educational setting.
A downfall of clinical diagnosis is that access to providers that can perform these highly specialized assessments is often limited in some regions, and can be costly; creating additional challenges for families seeking diagnosis.
Because educational eligibility assessments focus on academic performance needs, you may want to seek a clinical evaluation to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your child's needs, and to access services within the broader community.
Final Thoughts…
Parents often grapple with frustration, anxiety, and uncertainty throughout the assessment process. It's vital to acknowledge these emotions and remember that each child's journey is unique.
Whether in the educational or clinical setting, advocate for your child's best interests. Ask questions, seek information, and communicate openly with professionals involved.
Early intervention, no matter the assessment route, is crucial. Even if your child doesn't meet educational eligibility criteria or receive a clinical diagnosis, addressing their needs promptly can be beneficial.
