Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Vangie Akridge, PsyD, LEP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/115b11a4-0d3b-4157-bbea-4682b477e841/3/320x400.jpeg)
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
![Photo of Rada West, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fc7a57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you concerned your child is demonstrating delays in milestones, such as speech and motor skills? Is your child demonstrating symptoms of poor attention/concentration, difficulties establishing peer relationships, difficulty learning or is not progressing in school as expected? Does your child have a history of a head injury or any other medical concerns that caused a decline/loss of skills? If any of the above are a concern, then perhaps, a neuropsychological evaluation would assist in understanding your child's current functioning and specific strengths and weaknesses. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation .
Are you concerned your child is demonstrating delays in milestones, such as speech and motor skills? Is your child demonstrating symptoms of poor attention/concentration, difficulties establishing peer relationships, difficulty learning or is not progressing in school as expected? Does your child have a history of a head injury or any other medical concerns that caused a decline/loss of skills? If any of the above are a concern, then perhaps, a neuropsychological evaluation would assist in understanding your child's current functioning and specific strengths and weaknesses. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation .
![Photo of Christina Watson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4060eb50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I conduct comprehensive assessments for ADHD/ADD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Math Disorder, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, and other processing deficits that can affect learning and academic performance. I also have unique experience with medical conditions that affect learning, such as premature birth, in utero drug exposure, head injury, seizure disorders, and genetic syndromes. I focus on discovering your, or your child's, strengths and weaknesses so that the best mode of learning is clear. I also make recommendations for home and school interventions and accommodations; that is, I help you with a plan of action.
I conduct comprehensive assessments for ADHD/ADD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Math Disorder, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, and other processing deficits that can affect learning and academic performance. I also have unique experience with medical conditions that affect learning, such as premature birth, in utero drug exposure, head injury, seizure disorders, and genetic syndromes. I focus on discovering your, or your child's, strengths and weaknesses so that the best mode of learning is clear. I also make recommendations for home and school interventions and accommodations; that is, I help you with a plan of action.
![Photo of Dr. Renate Ward - Ward Learning Solutions, EdD, ABSNP, NCSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a7b4d8c-423a-4b3d-b74a-0d0e35bc9673/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ward Learning Solutions
Licensed Educational Psychologist, EdD, ABSNP, NCSP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
Is your child struggling in school with learning or behavior? Are you concerned they may have a learning disability, emotional disability, or neurological disorder such as ADHD or Autism? Are you an adult in college or a career where you have/suspect a learning disability impacting your performance? Dr. Ward's goal is to assist parents in being the best advocate for their children by providing knowledge, guidance, and confidence that they are doing everything possible to maximize their child’s learning potential. Dr. Ward also specializes in DHH assessments with 13 years of teaching and 10 years of assessing this population in ASL.
Is your child struggling in school with learning or behavior? Are you concerned they may have a learning disability, emotional disability, or neurological disorder such as ADHD or Autism? Are you an adult in college or a career where you have/suspect a learning disability impacting your performance? Dr. Ward's goal is to assist parents in being the best advocate for their children by providing knowledge, guidance, and confidence that they are doing everything possible to maximize their child’s learning potential. Dr. Ward also specializes in DHH assessments with 13 years of teaching and 10 years of assessing this population in ASL.
![Photo of Donica Dohrenwend, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03bcd3b9-e37d-4b50-818c-72bb79231acf/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
Dr. Donica Dohrenwend, PhD and her team at Psychology 360, specialize in assessments and evaluations to help clarify diagnoses and identify the best supports and interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. Evaluations can assist with diagnosing ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia/Dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders etc). Psychology 360 also offers brief individual therapy, parent consultation, medication management and brain scans.
![Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e4952e-8d06-49e1-a9cd-0f407d66900f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
![Photo of Francis Paolo De Castro - Golden State Psychology, MS, LEP, PPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ee6173-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist and have been in practice for over 17 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Motivation). If your or your child is frustrated, has difficulty following directions, or has challenges with peers it may be due to an underlying issue and I will work to shed light on and resolve those issues. Through assessment you or your child can be relieved of frustrations and find success at school or in the workplace.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist and have been in practice for over 17 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Motivation). If your or your child is frustrated, has difficulty following directions, or has challenges with peers it may be due to an underlying issue and I will work to shed light on and resolve those issues. Through assessment you or your child can be relieved of frustrations and find success at school or in the workplace.
![Photo of Erich Haezebrouck, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6058cf35-2aca-4126-862c-47cb6072aa20/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ultimate goal in practice is to provide you or your child with a thorough, comprehensive psychological assessment that will allow you to fully understand you or your child’s unique learning and emotional needs. I do not perform “drive thru” evaluations and seek at all costs to make an accurate and well-supported diagnosis that can help you or your child receive the proper school accommodations, academic interventions, or psychological services to become your best self.
My ultimate goal in practice is to provide you or your child with a thorough, comprehensive psychological assessment that will allow you to fully understand you or your child’s unique learning and emotional needs. I do not perform “drive thru” evaluations and seek at all costs to make an accurate and well-supported diagnosis that can help you or your child receive the proper school accommodations, academic interventions, or psychological services to become your best self.
![Photo of Alan Jacobson - Virtual Psychological Testing Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38758b9f-6d3e-4bf3-9a2f-beee9dfee6dc/1/320x400.png)
Partial List of Services: ADHD - Mental Health - Compatibility - Emotional Intelligence - Autism - Career - Athletes - Personality - Anxiety - Borderline Personality - Creativity - Emotional Dysregulation - Fluid Intelligence - Testing for Mensa - Multiple Intelligences - OCD - Preschool IQ - Learning Disabilities - Giftedness - Learning Differences.
For over twenty years, we have provided advanced psychological testing using scientifically proven and established tests. Our principal psychologist, Dr. Alan Jacobson, oversees all testing. We will design a testing battery to meet your unique needs so that we can answer any questions you have, give you suggestions to help you overcome barriers, reach your potential, and bring welcome clarity to your day-to-day life. Our reports present substantial information beyond simply describing challenges; we provide insight and an individualized toolkit. We can also help you get any necessary accommodations at work or school.
Partial List of Services: ADHD - Mental Health - Compatibility - Emotional Intelligence - Autism - Career - Athletes - Personality - Anxiety - Borderline Personality - Creativity - Emotional Dysregulation - Fluid Intelligence - Testing for Mensa - Multiple Intelligences - OCD - Preschool IQ - Learning Disabilities - Giftedness - Learning Differences.
For over twenty years, we have provided advanced psychological testing using scientifically proven and established tests. Our principal psychologist, Dr. Alan Jacobson, oversees all testing. We will design a testing battery to meet your unique needs so that we can answer any questions you have, give you suggestions to help you overcome barriers, reach your potential, and bring welcome clarity to your day-to-day life. Our reports present substantial information beyond simply describing challenges; we provide insight and an individualized toolkit. We can also help you get any necessary accommodations at work or school.
![Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/749a38f6-1d8b-4df0-abb0-06222feba584/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
![Photo of Colleen Long - Dr. Colleen Long - Clarity California , PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/226c67b5-7dec-4415-937c-e6a2dcc7a843/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Colleen Long - Clarity California
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Clarity California provides therapy, psychological, and neuropsychological assessment for individuals aged 7-85, for; diagnostic clarification, memory/executive functioning issues, ADHD, learning disabilities, personality testing, pre-operative surgery evaluations (gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, spinal cord stimulator). We also provide evaluations for egg donor and gestational surrogate candidates.
Clarity California provides therapy, psychological, and neuropsychological assessment for individuals aged 7-85, for; diagnostic clarification, memory/executive functioning issues, ADHD, learning disabilities, personality testing, pre-operative surgery evaluations (gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, spinal cord stimulator). We also provide evaluations for egg donor and gestational surrogate candidates.
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![Photo of Susan Kroncke, EdD, ABSNP, LEP2189](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/227b4f9d-1030-4fda-baa6-3e30cac1e4fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment can identify learning differences that impede academic and social growth. We offer assessments for children and adults who are struggling with undiagnosed learning disabilities. Understanding of you or your child's strengths and weaknesses can provide a roadmap for success in school or in a career.
A comprehensive psychoeducational assessment can identify learning differences that impede academic and social growth. We offer assessments for children and adults who are struggling with undiagnosed learning disabilities. Understanding of you or your child's strengths and weaknesses can provide a roadmap for success in school or in a career.
![Photo of Dr. Elisabeth Charlotte Thurlow - Brain Spectrum Neuropsychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/645e7c1d-8b63-4954-b9f1-aeacbc9f30e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a neuropsychologist with a great respect for neurodiversity and learning differences. Although the assessment of children and adolescents is my mainstay, I also have extensive experience in evaluating adults. I am particularly skilled at assessing neurodivergent women and girls who have learned to mask their symptoms. I evaluate for learning disorders, processing deficits, and developmental disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of folks who are struggling with emotional challenges, like anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I am a neuropsychologist with a great respect for neurodiversity and learning differences. Although the assessment of children and adolescents is my mainstay, I also have extensive experience in evaluating adults. I am particularly skilled at assessing neurodivergent women and girls who have learned to mask their symptoms. I evaluate for learning disorders, processing deficits, and developmental disorders, including but not limited to ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. I also provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of folks who are struggling with emotional challenges, like anxiety, depression, and OCD.
![Photo of Norman Severe, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d98344-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in treating individuals with learning differences.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
I also specialize in treating individuals with learning differences.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you. My name is Dr. Norman Severe and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in our local San Diego community for over 20 years. For the past seventeen years, I have devoted my private practice to serving the mental health needs of children, adolescents and families in need of therapeutic and psychological support. I beleive everyone can achieve great things in their lives by recognizing their strengths, working through struggles and overcoming obstacles by persevering and never giving up.
![Photo of Natacha Akshoomoff Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0be3ba86-2673-418c-b339-a7997ee5765c/1/320x400.jpeg)
A neuropsychological evaluation provides a comprehensive understanding of brain functioning and an individual's strengths and weaknesses. I work with children, teens, and young adults. Neurocognitive skills, academic abilities, social skills, and behavior are assessed as part of each evaluation using gold standard tools. I'm well-known for my expertise in the diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. My goal is to help each person reach their full potential. I do not offer therapy services.
A neuropsychological evaluation provides a comprehensive understanding of brain functioning and an individual's strengths and weaknesses. I work with children, teens, and young adults. Neurocognitive skills, academic abilities, social skills, and behavior are assessed as part of each evaluation using gold standard tools. I'm well-known for my expertise in the diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. My goal is to help each person reach their full potential. I do not offer therapy services.
![Photo of Kristin Whelan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10ec130-56ed-423b-b3ac-6018301267f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury/concussion evaluations, worker’s compensation, organ transplant candidacy, aging baselines, comprehensive neuropsychological evals, as well as diagnostic assessment of mental health conditions, personality disorders, intellectual and learning disabilities, ASD, and other cognitive/neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
impairment, dementia, traumatic brain injury/concussion evaluations, worker’s compensation, organ transplant candidacy, aging baselines, comprehensive neuropsychological evals, as well as diagnostic assessment of mental health conditions, personality disorders, intellectual and learning disabilities, ASD, and other cognitive/neurodevelopmental conditions.
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
![Photo of Connie Strohbehn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3c1e7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a subspecialty working with all ranges of disability including developmental disability, autism spectrum, learning disability and attention related problems.
I have enjoyed over 30 years of clinical work in private practice. People refer to me as competent, caring and down to earth. I am collaborative in my process, guiding people on their path of growth and change, always with respect for their courage and trust.
I see individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families over a wide range of treatment issues with a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults.
I welcome challenge and believe in the strength of every individual.
I have a subspecialty working with all ranges of disability including developmental disability, autism spectrum, learning disability and attention related problems.
I have enjoyed over 30 years of clinical work in private practice. People refer to me as competent, caring and down to earth. I am collaborative in my process, guiding people on their path of growth and change, always with respect for their courage and trust.
I see individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families over a wide range of treatment issues with a particular affinity for adolescents and young adults.
I welcome challenge and believe in the strength of every individual.
![Photo of Madeline Falcone, LMFT, CBP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92ba858a-635f-4d95-a992-b819677ddd91/1/320x400.jpeg)
I look forward to learning how we can be of service to you, your child and/or your family.
After spending several years as an educator, I earned my MFT and opened Falcone Institute, a holistic psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic practice. I provide an individualized, heart-centered, and intuitive approach to healing and learning through complementary and alternative methodologies. My expertise and ability to ‘see’ and acknowledge each child’s and family’s specific needs provides a ray of hope for client families.
I look forward to learning how we can be of service to you, your child and/or your family.
After spending several years as an educator, I earned my MFT and opened Falcone Institute, a holistic psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic practice. I provide an individualized, heart-centered, and intuitive approach to healing and learning through complementary and alternative methodologies. My expertise and ability to ‘see’ and acknowledge each child’s and family’s specific needs provides a ray of hope for client families.
![Photo of Kathie Sweeten - HealthPro Pediatrics, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a02fb077-d634-468e-879f-e82dfeb1c9dd/2/320x400.png)
Now offering both diagnostic and therapy services to children and adolescents, HealthPRO Pediatrics has added mental health to its list of therapeutic offerings. Specializing in the neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, behavioral concerns and parent training, the team at HealthPRO can help provide support to families in need. Kathie Sweeten, Psy.D., BCBA-D is a licensed clinical psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral level with over 30 years of experience in the field of childhood mental health.
Now offering both diagnostic and therapy services to children and adolescents, HealthPRO Pediatrics has added mental health to its list of therapeutic offerings. Specializing in the neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, behavioral concerns and parent training, the team at HealthPRO can help provide support to families in need. Kathie Sweeten, Psy.D., BCBA-D is a licensed clinical psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral level with over 30 years of experience in the field of childhood mental health.
![Photo of Paula Waisman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c17dd45-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to examine issues that impact our quality of life. I help bring awareness to the source of emotional stress, help you with better self-understanding and more realistic expectations, while working together to arrive at solutions.
I have had experience working with young adults, adolescents, children and families in various practice settings, including private practice, schools, hospitals and university counseling centers. Currently,my practice is mostly individual psychotherapy, as well as psychological assessment. I also provide ADHD and learning disability evaluations.
Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to examine issues that impact our quality of life. I help bring awareness to the source of emotional stress, help you with better self-understanding and more realistic expectations, while working together to arrive at solutions.
I have had experience working with young adults, adolescents, children and families in various practice settings, including private practice, schools, hospitals and university counseling centers. Currently,my practice is mostly individual psychotherapy, as well as psychological assessment. I also provide ADHD and learning disability evaluations.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Santee
- Solana Beach
Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists
How effective is treatment for learning disabilities?
When initiated early and tailored to a child’s specific needs, learning disability treatment can be quite effective at helping a child cope with their disability, though its exact efficacy may depend on the severity of symptoms and whether comorbid disorders exist. Less is known about treatment initiated in adulthood, but it is certainly possible that an adult with a learning disability will see some improvement—or at the very least, identify workarounds and accommodations that could make symptoms less burdensome in day-to-day life.
When should someone seek treatment for learning disabilities?
It’s best to seek treatment as early as possible. Because learning disabilities often go unnoticed until a child starts school, or even until they’re a few years along, regular check-ins with teachers and doctors can help parents determine whether children are meeting milestones and keeping up with peers or whether an evaluation for learning disabilities may be warranted. And although earlier is always better, it’s never too late to be evaluated for learning disabilities and to seek treatment.
What happens if learning disabilities are left untreated?
Undiagnosed and untreated learning disabilities can be a source of significant frustration and shame for a child, who may feel that their challenges stem from a lack of intelligence or willpower. Such feelings can trigger low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety, which may push a child toward risky behaviors, including substance use. In adulthood, untreated learning disabilities can interfere with career success, and lingering feelings of self-doubt and shame can negatively affect someone’s mental health.
Are there medications for learning disabilities?
Currently, there are no medications designed to treat specific learning disabilities such as dysgraphia or dyscalculia. However, someone with a learning disability may be prescribed medication for a comorbid condition, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which may have positive downstream effects on their learning disability; for example, a child with both ADHD and dyslexia may find that they’re better able to focus on their reading exercises after being prescribed a stimulant medication.