Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Southport, CT

Photo of Betsy Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
I work with children who struggle with anxiety, ADHD, Autism, developmental differences, depression, learning differences, and behavioral challenges.
Welcome! I bring over 20 years of experience working with children and their families and am passionate about helping to navigate the wonderful, while sometimes confusing and challenging path of parenthood. I work to build a safe and trusting relationship through which change can be supported. Working with children and their caregiver(s), we create a plan of care with clear goals and treatment interventions based on evidence based practice models. At the core of my work is the child's sense of self and well-being. Together, we will work to better understand your child's inner world and how to best support them.
I work with children who struggle with anxiety, ADHD, Autism, developmental differences, depression, learning differences, and behavioral challenges.
Welcome! I bring over 20 years of experience working with children and their families and am passionate about helping to navigate the wonderful, while sometimes confusing and challenging path of parenthood. I work to build a safe and trusting relationship through which change can be supported. Working with children and their caregiver(s), we create a plan of care with clear goals and treatment interventions based on evidence based practice models. At the core of my work is the child's sense of self and well-being. Together, we will work to better understand your child's inner world and how to best support them.
(475) 244-9058 View (475) 244-9058
Photo of Monica E. Rothstein, MEd, CAES
Monica E. Rothstein
MEd, CAES
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06490
Greetings! I’m a child therapist and school psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping children and parents. Children feel comfortable meeting with me to help with concerns at home and at school. Anxiety, peer concerns, behavior, and learning challenges are common issues that we address. I also offer parent consultations, providing practical, evidence-based strategies for raising healthy children.
Greetings! I’m a child therapist and school psychologist with over 25 years of experience helping children and parents. Children feel comfortable meeting with me to help with concerns at home and at school. Anxiety, peer concerns, behavior, and learning challenges are common issues that we address. I also offer parent consultations, providing practical, evidence-based strategies for raising healthy children.
(203) 769-9935 View (203) 769-9935
Photo of Joelle Smorada, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Smorada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
I understand and value the importance of providing clients with a safe space to express and process life's events and accompanying emotions. I use a warm and friendly approach to help them to identify their strengths while empowering them as they work toward their goals. Recognizing it can be challenging to open up to someone, I believe in building a strong therapeutic alliance and allowing clients to work at their own pace so that they can best balance life's changes and challenges. I believe in working collaboratively as I take the time to understand my clients and their individual needs and goals.
I understand and value the importance of providing clients with a safe space to express and process life's events and accompanying emotions. I use a warm and friendly approach to help them to identify their strengths while empowering them as they work toward their goals. Recognizing it can be challenging to open up to someone, I believe in building a strong therapeutic alliance and allowing clients to work at their own pace so that they can best balance life's changes and challenges. I believe in working collaboratively as I take the time to understand my clients and their individual needs and goals.
(475) 473-9973 View (475) 473-9973
Photo of Alyssa Kolesar - Coastal Connecticut Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Coastal Connecticut Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or feeling stuck in life? You're not alone, and you don't have to face these difficulties by yourself. At Coastal, we understand how overwhelming these feelings can be, and we are here to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions. Together, we can identify your strengths and work towards healing and personal growth. Your well-being is important, and we are committed to being with you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, happier you!
Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or feeling stuck in life? You're not alone, and you don't have to face these difficulties by yourself. At Coastal, we understand how overwhelming these feelings can be, and we are here to offer a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your emotions. Together, we can identify your strengths and work towards healing and personal growth. Your well-being is important, and we are committed to being with you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, happier you!
(475) 471-1804 View (475) 471-1804
Photo of Mary Cordeau - Peace of Mind Psychological Services, LLC, CAS, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peace of Mind Psychological Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, CAS, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890  (Online Only)
Using active listening, reflection and empathy, I work with clients to help them understand and overcome their emotional struggles. I use a holistic approach to foster emotional wellness taking into consideration all of the biological, social, and psychological needs hindering clients from emotional growth. I believe that my balanced approach which employs different forms of therapeutic intervention helps me to better meet the individual needs of my clients.
Using active listening, reflection and empathy, I work with clients to help them understand and overcome their emotional struggles. I use a holistic approach to foster emotional wellness taking into consideration all of the biological, social, and psychological needs hindering clients from emotional growth. I believe that my balanced approach which employs different forms of therapeutic intervention helps me to better meet the individual needs of my clients.
(203) 584-9209 View (203) 584-9209
Photo of Jeffrey Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06490  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
(203) 871-0675 View (203) 871-0675
Photo of Kristina Montini, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristina Montini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southport, CT 06490
Welcome! I am truly grateful that you took the time to stop by and check out my profile. It takes strength and courage to move forward through life’s challenges and it is important to know when we need to ask for help. I am here to partner with you, to help you overcome the bumps in the road and to come through them with more personal insight and self-love. I believe in a trauma informed, holistic and person-centered approach. This means that I am here for you; to work at a pace that feels comfortable and safe. We will work together to build a trusting relationship and to outline your therapy goals.
Welcome! I am truly grateful that you took the time to stop by and check out my profile. It takes strength and courage to move forward through life’s challenges and it is important to know when we need to ask for help. I am here to partner with you, to help you overcome the bumps in the road and to come through them with more personal insight and self-love. I believe in a trauma informed, holistic and person-centered approach. This means that I am here for you; to work at a pace that feels comfortable and safe. We will work together to build a trusting relationship and to outline your therapy goals.
(475) 222-1479 View (475) 222-1479
Photo of Beth Magner Garvey, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Magner Garvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Emotionally depleted? I am a compassionate, empathetic, enthusiastic partner ready to help you find a sense of peace and balance. I love working with adolescents and adults empowering them to achieve their goals and face challenges in a healthy way. Working with a variety of people, from those facing difficulty with new life situations to those who are experiencing depression and anxiety, my goal is to support you as you find ways to manage your fears while discovering your self-worth and self acceptance. I look forward to assisting you as you become your best self.
Feeling overwhelmed? Stressed out? Emotionally depleted? I am a compassionate, empathetic, enthusiastic partner ready to help you find a sense of peace and balance. I love working with adolescents and adults empowering them to achieve their goals and face challenges in a healthy way. Working with a variety of people, from those facing difficulty with new life situations to those who are experiencing depression and anxiety, my goal is to support you as you find ways to manage your fears while discovering your self-worth and self acceptance. I look forward to assisting you as you become your best self.
(203) 779-6339 View (203) 779-6339

More Therapists Nearby

Mary Best
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
Provide an understanding of specific cognitive skills (problem solving, learning, memory, attention, executive functioning) and patterns that affect a persons functioning at school or work.
Individuals who will benefit from neuropsychological testing are interested in understanding how their cognitive skills (or those of their children) are impacting their daily functioning. Many individuals have concerns about school functioning and are wondering why they (or their children) are struggling. Some individuals are interested in maximizing their cognitive strengths to perform better at school or their place of employment.
Provide an understanding of specific cognitive skills (problem solving, learning, memory, attention, executive functioning) and patterns that affect a persons functioning at school or work.
Individuals who will benefit from neuropsychological testing are interested in understanding how their cognitive skills (or those of their children) are impacting their daily functioning. Many individuals have concerns about school functioning and are wondering why they (or their children) are struggling. Some individuals are interested in maximizing their cognitive strengths to perform better at school or their place of employment.
(203) 737-7151 View (203) 737-7151
Photo of Clorinda Bulfamante, PsyD, Psychologist
Clorinda Bulfamante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I have extensive training in conducting assessments tailored at diagnosing various conditions, some of which include ADHD, learning disabilities, cognitive deficits, as well as mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
I have extensive training in conducting assessments tailored at diagnosing various conditions, some of which include ADHD, learning disabilities, cognitive deficits, as well as mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
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Photo of Lauren Dobbs, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Dobbs is highly skilled in psychological evaluations, specializing in learning disorders, ADHD, and social-emotional functioning.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
Dobbs is highly skilled in psychological evaluations, specializing in learning disorders, ADHD, and social-emotional functioning.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
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Photo of Danielle Rathey, MA, CAS, PhD, LPCA
Danielle Rathey
MA, CAS, PhD, LPCA
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06430
As an Educational Psychologist, Certified School Psychologist and Coach, I help clients in developing understanding and targeted skills as they relate to challenges in learning disabilities, dyslexia, neurodivergence, executive functioning skills and more. I help clients and their families develop an understanding cognitive processing and devise plans to best address barriers to learning. Since learning involves much more than cognitive skills, I also work with people on their beliefs about learning, their self-efficacy in accomplishing their goals and more. I want you to be confident, creative, and empowered in exactly who you are!
As an Educational Psychologist, Certified School Psychologist and Coach, I help clients in developing understanding and targeted skills as they relate to challenges in learning disabilities, dyslexia, neurodivergence, executive functioning skills and more. I help clients and their families develop an understanding cognitive processing and devise plans to best address barriers to learning. Since learning involves much more than cognitive skills, I also work with people on their beliefs about learning, their self-efficacy in accomplishing their goals and more. I want you to be confident, creative, and empowered in exactly who you are!
(203) 916-0947 View (203) 916-0947
Photo of Ranjana Hari, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
As a nationally certified school psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for learning disorders, ADHD, cognitive ability, and social-emotional functioning, with tailored treatment plans, incorporating personalized education/work strategies and interventions.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
As a nationally certified school psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for learning disorders, ADHD, cognitive ability, and social-emotional functioning, with tailored treatment plans, incorporating personalized education/work strategies and interventions.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
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Photo of Ranjana Hari, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ranjana Hari
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
As a nationally certified school psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for learning disorders, ADHD, cognitive ability, and social-emotional functioning, with tailored treatment plans, incorporating personalized education/work strategies and interventions.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
As a nationally certified school psychologist, I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for learning disorders, ADHD, cognitive ability, and social-emotional functioning, with tailored treatment plans, incorporating personalized education/work strategies and interventions.
I'm a dedicated psychotherapist with an extensive and diverse background, spanning private practice, schools, college clinics, foster care, and hospitals, including acute care. With a passion for treating individuals of all ages, I specialize in harnessing the power of evidence-based therapies to create long-lasting positive change, focusing on the core of issues, rather than surface change. I take pride in fostering a safe, warm, and compassionate environment that embraces the unique perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. Even the most resistant patients find themselves engaged in the therapeutic process under my care.
View
Photo of Clorinda Bulfamante, PsyD, Psychologist
Clorinda Bulfamante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
I have extensive training in conducting assessments tailored at diagnosing various conditions, some of which include ADHD, learning disabilities, cognitive deficits, as well as mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
I have extensive training in conducting assessments tailored at diagnosing various conditions, some of which include ADHD, learning disabilities, cognitive deficits, as well as mood and anxiety disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
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Photo of Karen Trangucci, PhD, Psychologist
Karen Trangucci
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
I conduct comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for children and adolescents when there are persistent questions about learning or behavior.
I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults to address a range of issues such as anxiety, coping with life stressors, developing social skills, improving self-esteem, and building healthy relationships. My approach incorporates techniques drawn from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in which individuals learn to apply more positive thoughts and beliefs to their lives. With compassion, I aim to help my clients become more aware of their emotions and use more adaptive coping skills. I work with children and adolescents in conjunction with their caregivers to improve their life experiences at home and in school.
I conduct comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for children and adolescents when there are persistent questions about learning or behavior.
I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults to address a range of issues such as anxiety, coping with life stressors, developing social skills, improving self-esteem, and building healthy relationships. My approach incorporates techniques drawn from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) in which individuals learn to apply more positive thoughts and beliefs to their lives. With compassion, I aim to help my clients become more aware of their emotions and use more adaptive coping skills. I work with children and adolescents in conjunction with their caregivers to improve their life experiences at home and in school.
(914) 768-4698 View (914) 768-4698
Photo of Lauren Dobbs, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824
Dobbs is highly skilled in psychological evaluations, specializing in learning disorders, ADHD, and social-emotional functioning.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
Dobbs is highly skilled in psychological evaluations, specializing in learning disorders, ADHD, and social-emotional functioning.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
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Photo of Robyn Goldman, EdD, LADC, Psychologist
Robyn Goldman
Psychologist, EdD, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824
I have a specialty in conducting comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational testing which also includes identification of learning disabilities.
I am a licensed Psychologist practicing in Fairfield County, Connecticut. I have over twenty years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I also work with couples and families. My practice focuses on issues with depression, anxiety and/or trauma. I include EMDR therapy in my treatment of trauma when appropriate, and have found this to be a highly effective way to resolve trauma symptoms. I also work with adjustment issues and career development. I take an integrative approach to the therapy I provide and utilize psychodynamic approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation work to assist you in achieving your goals.
I have a specialty in conducting comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational testing which also includes identification of learning disabilities.
I am a licensed Psychologist practicing in Fairfield County, Connecticut. I have over twenty years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I also work with couples and families. My practice focuses on issues with depression, anxiety and/or trauma. I include EMDR therapy in my treatment of trauma when appropriate, and have found this to be a highly effective way to resolve trauma symptoms. I also work with adjustment issues and career development. I take an integrative approach to the therapy I provide and utilize psychodynamic approaches, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation work to assist you in achieving your goals.
(203) 304-7679 x510 View (203) 304-7679 x510
Photo of Jake Zoubek, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jake Zoubek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06430
Jake works with a wide range of ages, including adolescents and their families. Jake has experience in helping adolescents navigate struggles within school, community, family and judicial settings and provides supervision and consultation for associate licensed clinicians. Jake has experience working directly with a wide range of behavioral health needs, from autism spectrum disorder to anxiety and substance use disorders. Jake spent time as a milieu therapist at a residential substance program, and has provided services to adolescents and young adults struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Jake works with a wide range of ages, including adolescents and their families. Jake has experience in helping adolescents navigate struggles within school, community, family and judicial settings and provides supervision and consultation for associate licensed clinicians. Jake has experience working directly with a wide range of behavioral health needs, from autism spectrum disorder to anxiety and substance use disorders. Jake spent time as a milieu therapist at a residential substance program, and has provided services to adolescents and young adults struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
(203) 453-2999 View (203) 453-2999
Photo of Meg Rosenau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Rosenau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824
If you or your child are struggling, you’ve probably tried everything you can think of. Maybe there’s been a stressful event and you notice it’s been hard to bounce back. I help teens, young adults and adults work through problems, overcome fears and anxiety, and adapt to changes in life. I provide skill development to cope with anxiety, enhance self-esteem, build social skills, increase problem-solving and self-advocacy in an environment of acceptance and non-judgement. I support growth and forward focused outcomes, to assist you/ your child in navigating next steps with confidence.
If you or your child are struggling, you’ve probably tried everything you can think of. Maybe there’s been a stressful event and you notice it’s been hard to bounce back. I help teens, young adults and adults work through problems, overcome fears and anxiety, and adapt to changes in life. I provide skill development to cope with anxiety, enhance self-esteem, build social skills, increase problem-solving and self-advocacy in an environment of acceptance and non-judgement. I support growth and forward focused outcomes, to assist you/ your child in navigating next steps with confidence.
(203) 433-6906 View (203) 433-6906
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.