Learning Disability Evaluations
A learning disability is when someone has a harder time learning and using certain skills like reading or math, even thought they may be smart and want to learn. Learning Disabilities, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia, occur in upwards of 20% of the population, making it one of the most common kinds of neurodevelopmental conditions. We offer learning disability evaluations for both children and adults.
Having a learning disability affects children and adults from all socio-economic statuses and has nothing to do with how smart or motivated someone is. Undiagnosed and untreated learning disabilities lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other adverse life outcomes.
Learning disabilities are some of the most studied phenomena in psychology and education, so much is known about how to diagnose and improve outcomes with treatment.
Childhood Learning Disability Evaluations
Struggles in school can be frustrating for both you and your child. Early identification and intervention is key for a child with a learning disability because the amount of time and resources it takes to remediate a child increases as time goes on and gaps in learning become larger.
Benefits of a Childhood Learning Disability Evaluation
Early Identification: Evaluations can identify learning disabilities early in a child's development, enabling timely interventions and support. Early intervention is often more effective in addressing learning challenges.
Customized Education Plans: Evaluations help educators create individualized education plans (IEPs) and Student Support Plans (SSPs) that cater to the child's specific needs, ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and teaching methods.
Effective Teaching Strategies: Evaluations provide insights into the child's learning style, allowing teachers to adapt their teaching methods to better suit the child's strengths and weaknesses.
Improved Academic Performance: With tailored support, children with learning disabilities can experience improved academic performance, boosting their self-confidence and motivation to learn.
Emotional Well-being: Addressing learning disabilities early can prevent the frustration and anxiety that often accompanies academic struggles, contributing to improved emotional well-being.
Parental Guidance: Learning disability evaluations provide parents with a better understanding of their child's needs, equipping them to support their child's educational journey more effectively.
Legal Protections: Evaluations and documented learning disabilities may make children eligible for legal protections and accommodations in educational settings.
Transition to Higher Education: When learning disabilities are identified and addressed during childhood, it facilitates a smoother transition to higher education, as students can request accommodations in college or university settings.
Enhanced Future Opportunities: Addressing learning disabilities helps children develop essential skills, increasing their chances of success in future academic and career endeavors.
Reduced Stigma: Recognizing and addressing learning disabilities reduces the stigma associated with academic challenges, promoting a more inclusive and empathetic society.
Access to Accommodations: In some cases, documented learning disabilities can help individuals access the accommodations necessary for their success, such as extra time on assignments or standardized testing.
Adult Learning Disability Evaluations
Learning disabilities impact people of all ages, and the impacts extend well beyond the classroom.
Benefits of an Adult Learning Disability Evaluation
Identification and Clarity: Evaluation provides adults with a clear understanding of their learning difficulties and any underlying learning disorders, such as dyslexia or ADHD. This knowledge can be empowering and can help individuals make sense of past challenges.
Access to Support: Once a learning disability is identified, adults can access appropriate support, accommodations, and resources to help them succeed in various aspects of life, including work, education, and personal development.
Personal Growth: Learning disability evaluations can be a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement. Individuals can develop strategies to overcome challenges, build self-confidence, and enhance their self-esteem.
Career Advancement: With a better understanding of their learning challenges, adults can seek appropriate career paths and make informed decisions about further education and training.
Improved Relationships: Understanding one's learning disabilities can lead to better communication with family members, friends, and colleagues. It can also help individuals advocate for their needs in relationships and workplace settings.
Mental Health Support: Learning disability evaluations can uncover any associated mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, which can then be addressed through appropriate treatment and counseling.
Legal Protections: In some cases, documentation of a learning disability can provide legal protections and accommodations in workplace or educational settings.
Lifelong Learning: With tailored strategies and accommodations, adults with learning disabilities can continue to engage in lifelong learning and personal development, pursuing their interests and passions.
Community and Support Networks: Learning disability evaluations can connect individuals with support groups, advocacy organizations, and professionals who specialize in helping adults with learning disabilities.
Increased Self-Awareness: Ultimately, the process of evaluation fosters greater self-awareness, allowing adults to leverage their strengths and address their weaknesses, leading to a more fulfilling and successful life.