Expert: Catherine Ridenour - 8/4/2010

Question
Currently, my son is being seen by a Pediatrician at our main Children's Hospital in San Diego--I have thought of changing this as my son is 16, 6'2,'' and just kinda stands out in the waiting room with the other "kiddos" (on that tiny block furniture). ha-ha!

There are two follow-up questions I would like to ask you:

1) What, SPECIFICALLY, should I ask for (i.e. type of professional I ask to be referred to and which concise words to use expressing our dilemma), because I have been told various things countless times by people but, in the past, that Doctor has simply Poo-pooed my concerns--probably because of my son's age & stature!  Why is Autism such a troubling/disturbing/accusatory word to these Physicians?  I'm not BLAMING anyone--I'm just trying to equip my boy with ALL the necessary life tools I can BEFORE I die!

2) Are there any peer groups, organizations, agencies, programs, (or general)AVENUES that you can direct me to (local or otherwise) so that I can get my boy "linked-up" to some professional understanding/tutelage/therapy/"know-how?!"  This would be useful, helpful, & MOST appreciated, Catherine, thanks!!!!!!!!

Answer
Hi Cori,

I would find a different primary care for your son, immediately. He is not a child and his needs are different. He needs a general practitioner or internist, not a pediatrician.

Autism is not a "happy" word to most doctors because it is not something they can "cure." Most were given little education to deal with it in the first place. Like other conditions, some will throw medications at it which can sometimes help but usually come with some heavy duty side effects. Most just don't want to deal with it as it makes the patient "difficult." Depression is not a common issue for a pediatrician and complicated with autism, it is out of his/her realm, completely.

Your best bet to find a local peer group is to contact your state's autism society. Also, enter your city and state, plus the word autism, into Google and check out what you find. Call the state department of education and see if they have any suggestions.

Getting your son into therapy first requires a diagnosis. That is why I am urging you to get referred to a psychiatrist who can do the testing. Then he/she can refer you to competent occupational therapists who know how to work with 6'2" 16 year old young men.

Keep knocking on doors until someone answers. You are his best advocate. I know you're tired, but hang in there.

Best wishes,
Catherine