Diagnosing disabilities in children
Do you suspect that your child may have an Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Motor Disorder or any other disorders? Children diagnosed with a disability have the right to special assistance.
Parents of children with a disability are entitled to home-care allowance from the State Social Security Institute.
Counselling and Diagnostic Centre
Counselling and Diagnostic Centre is a national institution serving young people from birth to 18 years of age, and their families. The aim is to help children with developmental disabilities achieve their potential and enjoy success in adult life by providing early intervention, multidisciplinary assessment, counselling and access to resources.
Furthermore, the centre educates parents and professionals about children’s disabilities and main treatment methods. Its staff members are involved in clinical research and various projects in the field of childhood disabilities in cooperation with local and international teams.
Family centered service
The centre puts emphasis on the principles of family-centred services, sensitivity and respect for the culture and values of each family. Parents are encouraged to take active part in decisions regarding the child´s services and to participate in intervention programs when possible.
Referrals
Suspicion of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Intellectual Disability and Motor Disorders is the main reason for a referral to the Counselling and Diagnostic Centre.
Preliminary assessment must be made by a professional (for example paediatrician, psychologist, pre- and primary school specialists) before being referred to the centre.
Rights of children with disabilites
Children who are diagnosed with a disability have the right to special assistance in their youth pursuant to laws on disability rights. Furthermore, they have the right for services for the disabled under the auspices of the municipality.
Parents of children with a disabling condition are entitled to home-care allowances at the Social Insurance Administration due to increased expenditure related to the child´s condition. Icelandic Health Insurance pay for assistive devices (wheelchairs, walkers etc.), therapy and travel expenses.
Informative videos
More information
For more and detailed information about the Counselling and Diagnostic Centre, about the diagnostic process and the rights of the children diagnosed, please visit the website of the centre:
Useful links
- Counselling and Diagnostic Centre
- State Social Security Institute
- Icelandic Health Insurance
- Informative videos
- Rights of people with disabilities
- The Healthcare System
Do you suspect your child may have Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability or a Motor Disorder? Children diagnosed with a disability have the right to special assistance in their youth.