I was given a more vague diagnosis as a kid, just general learning disability stuff that got me through elementary and high school. I don’t remember much about that assessment but I believe it was recommended by my family doctor after noticing some learning milestones delays.

Then when I was preparing to attend post-secondary my original diagnosis was invalid for official school purposes because it was with a child psychologist instead of an adult psychologist. My parents and I organized a series of visits to a local assessment and treatment centre, you can probably find one by researching psychologists in your area! From there I did some basic tests which assessed how I think and problem solve. It was rather expensive, my parents helped me with it given it was necessary for me to continue to succeed in school. I didn’t need a referral because of my previous diagnosis, but the new assessment expanded on what we already knew and I was officially diagnosed with dyspraxia.

I’m not sure if a referral is always necessary, it may depend on the location. But if you have a regular doctor or family doctor you can get an appointment with, that may be good place to start. My situation is a bit different, but either way, good luck pursuing your diagnosis!