Having a thorough and authoritative diagnostic workup, such as the ones given at the University, can be beneficial in substantiating the disabilities and proving eligibility. In the area of case planning, I have found a diagnosis very important. This means the professional is presented with parents who typically look upset, angry, intolerant and who may have attempted, in desperation, some parenting techniques which can appear less than admirable. This seems to be a real 'trigger for a lot of mental health providers, which can cause a rush of support for the apparently poor, misunderstood child and a concurrent rush to judgment of the parents. Parents report this to be a common error that can have counterproductive results.
Therapists alienate the parents and consequently hinder the chances of forming an effective team.
Once all the conditions are identified, the therapist can turn to the next stage. Structure, consistency, realistic expectations, and more structure. It is helpful to think of the necessity for structure in terms of needing to provide an environmental exoskeleton for someone lacking an internal skeleton which will support them in the daily challenges they face. One method of intervention is through medication. Various medications are being tried and found useful in helping to stabilize these individuals.