Assessments

[Guest guest]

We have run the gamit it seems with respect to trying to understand what is

going on. In our case it started with behavioral issues (beligerant,

standoffish, demands). We started with traditional therapy which was a joke.

From art therapy to talk therapy. No one ever mentioned the thought of mental

illness. Somehow we came across OCD since there were some rituals, hand washing,

and other characteristics of OCD. We went to an OCD clinic and our son was so

reticent. Nothing to him was a problem. They suggested that we be prepared to

call 911 if the behavior continues since they could do nothing until he was a

willing participant.

The threat of calling 911 seemed to work. The extreme tempers and threats backed

off. But the day still consisted of arguments. But he still demonstrated

continual fears related germs, safety, and overall personal well being. We met

with the director at another local OCD clinic who stated that he was not extreme

OCD but that the beligerent behavior (exhibited to the doctor as well) had to be

dealt with first.

Called our EAP who has been very helpful for me. After some discussion and

research, they suggested meeting with a neuropsychologist. They conduct a series

of assessments that will help to determine what is going on. Met with a

wonderful neuropsychologist. After some discussion, she suggested that our son

should first go to a hospital for an evaluation and assessment. She could do

this, but if he was still reticent than this may not work well. She also stated

that it may be more Aspergers with some OCD. She gave us a contact.

We followed up with a gentleman there who reviewed briefly the process of

conducting an evaluation. It would consist of my son going there from 8-5 for

two weeks. During this time they would conduct a series of evaluations and

observations. There would also be a lot of family therapy and discussions. This

would result in a better understanding of what is going on along with a

treatment plan.

Question - have many of you gone through a similar process? Does this next step

of a hospital evaluation make sense? Any other thoughts?

Thanks

13yo son. Symptoms inc. anxiety around germs/contamination (frequent hand

washing, 1-2 minutes, washing of utensils/glasses before use. One time use of

glass. Safety: one parent must remain in house when other parent out. Not even

going outside. Personal health: high levels of anxiety about any slight feeling,

cut, etc. Need for control: very demanding how conversations go, where to stand.

He must be in control. Tempermental: he is a pit-bull in discussions, will not

back down or let it go. High anxiety before going to bed. Focuses on a specific

issue (e.g. something he ordered via mail), and is totally consumed with this

until it arrives. Beligerant and demanding. Has little empathy for others most

of the time.