Frequently Asked Questions

With Clinical Program Director Sherry Feinstein, M.S.

 

1. How do I know if my child should have an evaluation and when should I schedule the evaluation?

If you have concerns about the development of your child you should contact the Nisonger Clinical Program Director and complete a phone interview.  Recommendations for an evaluation will be based on this interview.  If an evaluation is recommended the scheduling process will begin. 

2. What is the benefit of getting a diagnosis?

A diagnosis will help you understand your child’s needs and how best to address these needs.  A diagnosis will assist in determining the best medical and therapeutic interventions to ensure optimum outcomes for your child.  Once your child has a diagnosis you may be able to access state, local and county funding resources to assist with the needs of your child.

3. I am afraid of my child being labeled, is the impact of this label lifelong?

A diagnosis helps identify the characteristics and needs of your child and will guide parents toward the best services and therapies available.  A diagnosis does not define a child; it is a way to describe certain characteristics of a child.  

4. How long is the wait list and what should I do in the mean time?

The waitlist is approximately 6 – 9 months long.  During the phone interview, Ms. Feinstein may offer and identify resources and services for your child while you are waiting. While on the waitlist, we encourage parents to pursue additional therapies, evaluations and services. 

5. What is the evaluation process and how long does it take?

Family Directed and Autism Clinics are designed to provide families with an interdisciplinary evaluation of their child’s developmental strengths, skills and needs with a focus on medical diagnosis of the child. This interdisciplinary approach allows parents the opportunity to discuss their child with a team of health care professionals which may include a speech and language pathologist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, audiologist, psychologist, medical dietician, parent advocate, and developmental pediatrician. 

The clinic experience for the child is based on play and interaction all conducted in a fun, friendly environment.  The diagnostic evaluation includes an audiological evaluation, a review of medical and educational records, observation of the child, interviews with the parents, standardized and developmental assessments and a physical examination. 

After the evaluation, the diagnostic team will discuss the child’s information gathered during the evaluation and then will meet with the family to discuss the findings and recommendations.  Parents are provided suggestions for follow up services and a formal report is provided.  The evaluation process will take most of a day to complete.

 

Return to Family Resources Index