Anyone request a Mediation?

Has anyone done this through early intervention?

Any tips? any Advice?

Should we have a lawyer?

TIA

Anyone request a Mediation?

I have done EI mediation in NYC (Queens) several times. We never had a lawyer and always walked out with the services we requested. We did threaten to get one involved, but I find that persistance is key in getting what you are requesting. I bring letters of support for the services I am requesting from the Dev. Ped., Neurologist, GI, Physiatrist, etc. They love to remind parents when they bring these letters of support from Doctors that EI is not a medical intervention program. They also like to remind parents that EI is for teaching parents the skills to work with the children when the therapist are not there. I just remind them that EI is a preventive program and if we give the children the necessary services now we may minimize long term effects of their condition. I also kept reminding them that I was not willing to sacrifice my child's services for the sake of their budgetary constraints (because they like to throw their budgets cuts at you too). I also find that they (EI) does not like to give you what you request but will throw you a bone (i.e. Family Training, Social Worker, Nutritionist, 1x a week more of OT, PT, SI, etc .) but never give in to your full request. I just tell them that I am interrested in what they have to offer but I will not take it in lieu of my request. Keep at it and remember that no one will advocate for your child like you will. Good Luck!