Pediatrician mentioned there were concerns for ASD at the 15 month check up appt

It was not a diagnosis, but her doctor mentioned it is a concern she has.

I'm not going to lie. I'm pretty devastated after having had yesterdays 15 month check up appointment. I'm not ashamed of my child possibly being autistic, but I'm scared for her because this world is so cruel. I've been up all night worried about her, and hoping it's just a delay and not a diagnosis that could make her more vulnerable to harm (from others).

Her pediatrician was concerned about her speech. We knew she was a little behind; she only knows "mama" and "dada". But we didn't even think about other things, that her pediatrician was most concerned about; she doesn't understand any commands or directions. We are unsure if she understands her name, because she looks over if you say any word loud enough.

We didn't even think of those things as being part of a delay. But here we are :/

I asked for a referral to early intervention and also a referral to a private speech therapy place, at the children's hospital, in case EI is not approved.

Is there anything else I should be doing for my daughter? Any advice? She is caught up on motor skills.