Competency 3: Treatment Strategies for Working with Clients with an FASD
Children
Medical and Mental Health Assessments
A clinical evaluation to diagnose an FASD is critical. If a counselor suspects that a client's child has an FASD, it is important to assist the client in obtaining a diagnostic workup. You may need to refer the client to a diagnostic clinic or to various professionals (e.g., neuropsychologist, occupational therapist).
Ongoing assessments are needed in children who already have a diagnosis of an FASD to monitor progress and assist parents in identifying issues needing intervention. The counselor may want to provide information on the types of assessments suggested (e.g., medication management, hearing, speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy). In addition, the counselor may want to consult with the Division of Developmental Disabilities in your state regarding services the family can obtain for the child.
