Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in California

Photo of Jared T Izumi, PhD, LP, NCSP, Psychologist
Jared T Izumi
Psychologist, PhD, LP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
Does your child struggle at school? Do you feel lost trying to find the right help for your child? Do you hope that your child's school experience could be better? Now more than ever, children are struggling to overcome the challenges at school and with learning. Let an expert lessen the burden of ensuring you're making the best decisions for your child's long-term future.
Does your child struggle at school? Do you feel lost trying to find the right help for your child? Do you hope that your child's school experience could be better? Now more than ever, children are struggling to overcome the challenges at school and with learning. Let an expert lessen the burden of ensuring you're making the best decisions for your child's long-term future.
(657) 837-1422 View (657) 837-1422
Photo of Chandra Birenbaum, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chandra Birenbaum
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
With over 25 years of working with adolescents and adults, my therapy style is authentic, empowering, strength based, compassionate, creative and fun. I am particularly skilled in working with trauma, managing strong emotions, and living with ADHD, Autism or Learning Disabilities. I enjoy supporting those looking for more purpose, self understanding, direction, peace, creativity or perspective. I have a great deal of experience working in multicultural and LGBTQ+ supportive contexts. I feel especially inspired by working with young adults because finding one’s own way in life is hard, exciting and full of possibilities.
(510) 319-9210 View (510) 319-9210
Photo of Siobhan Sheil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Siobhan Sheil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical social worker, I have treated children from ages 3-18 with a range of concerns, from anxiety, ADHD, Autism, depression, learning disabilities, TBI, and much more.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I have treated children from ages 3-18 with a range of concerns, from anxiety, ADHD, Autism, depression, learning disabilities, TBI, and much more.
(925) 420-8088 View (925) 420-8088
Photo of Joseph Miller - Miller Psychological Assessments, PhD, Psychologist
Miller Psychological Assessments
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94401
I specialize in assessment and diagnosis of Learning disabilities and ADHD in childhood through adulthood. My years of experience working with school districts allows me to offer superior yet efficient assessments at highly competitive rates. I can also help you navigate the special education system if needed.
I specialize in assessment and diagnosis of Learning disabilities and ADHD in childhood through adulthood. My years of experience working with school districts allows me to offer superior yet efficient assessments at highly competitive rates. I can also help you navigate the special education system if needed.
(628) 444-4189 View (628) 444-4189
Morrissey-Compton Educational Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
Is your child struggling with his/her performance in school or showing problematic behaviors. Are you concerned about your child's mental health or social skills? Are you as a parent struggling to understand your child's difficulties and how to help? At Morrissey-Compton, we have a multidisciplinary staff of psychologists, educational specialists, and speech & language therapists that can address the needs of any student struggling in school such as ADHD, behavioral problems, mental health concerns, poor social skills, learning disabilities, and speech and language challenges.
Is your child struggling with his/her performance in school or showing problematic behaviors. Are you concerned about your child's mental health or social skills? Are you as a parent struggling to understand your child's difficulties and how to help? At Morrissey-Compton, we have a multidisciplinary staff of psychologists, educational specialists, and speech & language therapists that can address the needs of any student struggling in school such as ADHD, behavioral problems, mental health concerns, poor social skills, learning disabilities, and speech and language challenges.
(650) 679-7810 View (650) 679-7810
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Rizo - Rizo Psychological & Behavioral Health Services, EdD, LEP, PPS, PPSC, Psychologist
Rizo Psychological & Behavioral Health Services
Psychologist, EdD, LEP, PPS, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Jonathan Rizo specializes in evaluating ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism, Emotional Disturbance, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and anxiety.
My ideal client is someone driven by the desire for change. They aim to conquer challenges and achieve positive outcomes. Seeking evaluations for ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism, Depression, and Emotional Disturbance—My expertise—they aspire to gain insights for targeted interventions/ help. Through compassionate support, we empower them to navigate change effectively, building resilience along the way. By understanding their unique needs, we tailor personalized strategies to improve their well-being. Together, we create a roadmap to stability and a brighter future, nurturing healing and growth ever step of the way.
Jonathan Rizo specializes in evaluating ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism, Emotional Disturbance, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and anxiety.
My ideal client is someone driven by the desire for change. They aim to conquer challenges and achieve positive outcomes. Seeking evaluations for ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism, Depression, and Emotional Disturbance—My expertise—they aspire to gain insights for targeted interventions/ help. Through compassionate support, we empower them to navigate change effectively, building resilience along the way. By understanding their unique needs, we tailor personalized strategies to improve their well-being. Together, we create a roadmap to stability and a brighter future, nurturing healing and growth ever step of the way.
(661) 425-9015 View (661) 425-9015
Photo of Keyondria D Bunch - Keyondria Bunch, PHD, Psychologist, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Keyondria Bunch, PHD, Psychologist, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Encino West Psychological Services provides educational advocacy and comprehensive psychoeducational assessments in areas such as learning disabilities and ADHD.
Encino West Psychological Services provides comprehensive psychological assessments for school-aged children experiencing challenges in an academic setting. As a parent with two children, I understand the anxiety that can come from dropping your children off at school every morning, knowing they will be out of your care for the next 6-8 hours. I have been advocating for the educational needs of children for many years and this journey has shed light on how important it is to know what a child or adolescent may be struggling with while at school.
Encino West Psychological Services provides educational advocacy and comprehensive psychoeducational assessments in areas such as learning disabilities and ADHD.
Encino West Psychological Services provides comprehensive psychological assessments for school-aged children experiencing challenges in an academic setting. As a parent with two children, I understand the anxiety that can come from dropping your children off at school every morning, knowing they will be out of your care for the next 6-8 hours. I have been advocating for the educational needs of children for many years and this journey has shed light on how important it is to know what a child or adolescent may be struggling with while at school.
(747) 298-6496 View (747) 298-6496
Photo of Ana C. DiRago, PhD, Psychologist
Ana C. DiRago
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Altos, CA 94022
I welcome referrals for ADHD, learning disabilities, work or school accommodations, IQ testing, autism spectrum disorders, psychological concerns, treatment-resistant conditions, giftedness, personality testing, cognitive decline, and others.
I am a licensed psychologist with vast experience in diagnostic evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Stanford Department of Psychiatry where I train and supervise Forensic Psychiatry Fellows. In my practice, I offer a variety of evaluation options to help you understand your, or your loved ones', strengths and challenges as well as their root cause. The purpose of these evaluations is two-fold: to present a "full picture" understanding of a person, and to provide individualized strength-based recommendations.
I welcome referrals for ADHD, learning disabilities, work or school accommodations, IQ testing, autism spectrum disorders, psychological concerns, treatment-resistant conditions, giftedness, personality testing, cognitive decline, and others.
I am a licensed psychologist with vast experience in diagnostic evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults. I am also an Adjunct Professor at the Stanford Department of Psychiatry where I train and supervise Forensic Psychiatry Fellows. In my practice, I offer a variety of evaluation options to help you understand your, or your loved ones', strengths and challenges as well as their root cause. The purpose of these evaluations is two-fold: to present a "full picture" understanding of a person, and to provide individualized strength-based recommendations.
(650) 282-1661 View (650) 282-1661
Photo of Susan Kroncke, EdD, ABSNP, LEP2189
Susan Kroncke
EdD, ABSNP, LEP2189
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
If you suspect that you or your child has any unidentified learning disability or needs interventions, please call for an appointment.
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.
If you suspect that you or your child has any unidentified learning disability or needs interventions, please call for an appointment.
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.
(951) 309-9573 View (951) 309-9573
Photo of Dr. Ric Addison, PsyD, LEP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Dr. Ric Addison
Psychologist, PsyD, LEP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Murrieta, CA 92562
Having worked as an educator for the past 23 years, the last 16 as a school psychologist, gives me a unique perspective on learning styles and neurocognitive functioning.
Never before have children, adolescents, and young adults in the education system been more challenged. High-stakes standardized testing and the one size fits all approach to education have caused some of the most resilient students to become stressed and/or fall behind. Students who have disabilities are often overlooked or given the incorrect interventions, causing them to fall further behind. I offer comprehensive evaluations that not only determine if a child qualifies for special education but also by finding each child's unique strengths and weaknesses we are able to match the interventions to the child's unique needs.
Having worked as an educator for the past 23 years, the last 16 as a school psychologist, gives me a unique perspective on learning styles and neurocognitive functioning.
Never before have children, adolescents, and young adults in the education system been more challenged. High-stakes standardized testing and the one size fits all approach to education have caused some of the most resilient students to become stressed and/or fall behind. Students who have disabilities are often overlooked or given the incorrect interventions, causing them to fall further behind. I offer comprehensive evaluations that not only determine if a child qualifies for special education but also by finding each child's unique strengths and weaknesses we are able to match the interventions to the child's unique needs.
(951) 221-4673 View (951) 221-4673
Photo of Dr. Christine Powell: Education Therapist Adhd Coach, EdD, MEd
I see it every day in humans who are struggling because they need to learn how to PLAN/ Time MANAGE/ Goal Set/ FOCUS/Organize- I offer individualized learning insight into how you learn & how to learn more effectively.
Seeing my son struggle with ADHD was difficult. As an Education Therapist and Special Educator, I wanted to have alternatives to prescription medication for his lack of focus and attention. I developed an interactive, research-based approach that focuses on the individualized needs of each human I see. My best-fit clients (& most successful) are individuals with ADHD, diagnosed or undiagnosed, dealing with Executive Functioning challenges. Executive Dysfunction can hinder academic and life success. Reach out for a free 15 min. Discovery session.
I see it every day in humans who are struggling because they need to learn how to PLAN/ Time MANAGE/ Goal Set/ FOCUS/Organize- I offer individualized learning insight into how you learn & how to learn more effectively.
Seeing my son struggle with ADHD was difficult. As an Education Therapist and Special Educator, I wanted to have alternatives to prescription medication for his lack of focus and attention. I developed an interactive, research-based approach that focuses on the individualized needs of each human I see. My best-fit clients (& most successful) are individuals with ADHD, diagnosed or undiagnosed, dealing with Executive Functioning challenges. Executive Dysfunction can hinder academic and life success. Reach out for a free 15 min. Discovery session.
(757) 798-7965 View (757) 798-7965
Photo of David Judd - David Judd, Psy.D. Early Life Child Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
David Judd, Psy.D. Early Life Child Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
My clinical experience includes individual, group, couples, and family counseling, along with testing and assessment services with both English and Spanish speaking children, adolescents, and adults. I have administered over 100 educational, psychological, and psycho-educational assessments for school-aged children, adolescents, and adults. I have attended numerous IEP meetings for students with special education needs. In addition to assessment services, I have also conducted individual and family psychotherapeutic services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience providing services to clients on issues related to domestic violence, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, personality disorders, relational difficulties, learning disorders, and Autism.
My clinical experience includes individual, group, couples, and family counseling, along with testing and assessment services with both English and Spanish speaking children, adolescents, and adults. I have administered over 100 educational, psychological, and psycho-educational assessments for school-aged children, adolescents, and adults. I have attended numerous IEP meetings for students with special education needs. In addition to assessment services, I have also conducted individual and family psychotherapeutic services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience providing services to clients on issues related to domestic violence, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, personality disorders, relational difficulties, learning disorders, and Autism.
(661) 776-9003 View (661) 776-9003
Photo of Michael A Schmidt, PhD, Psychologist
Michael A Schmidt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Michael Schmidt specializes in providing therapy for various mood challenges and administering psychological testing for Learning Disability, Autism, ADHD, and Cognitive abilities.
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing ( Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
Michael Schmidt specializes in providing therapy for various mood challenges and administering psychological testing for Learning Disability, Autism, ADHD, and Cognitive abilities.
We provide testing and therapy services to youth and adults struggling in their everyday functioning. PSYCHOTHERAPY: Treatment for youth, families, and adults with mild to severe depression, suicidality/hospitalization, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationship distress, and more. TESTING: Cognitive Testing (IQ/mental abilities); Psychoeducational Testing ( Learning Disability/academic achievement); Developmental Testing (Autism Spectrum Disorder, language/motor delay, behavioral disturbance); ADHD Testing (distractibility/concentration, fidgety, impulsive); Behavioral/Emotional Testing (Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anxiety).
(408) 418-2503 View (408) 418-2503
Photo of Narges Izadi - Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP
I believe that every student's learning potential can be unlocked through the power of care, and I strive to make that a reality.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist specializing in the assessment and intervention for learning/emotional/intellectual/executive functions disorders. Through evidence-based and mindful exploration, I unravel clients' challenges, and guide them toward a healthy, happy and fulfilling sense of self and educational experience. My passion is supporting children, adolescents and adults who, for one reason or another, have struggled to engage with the conventional educational system. I specialize in the assessment and placement of students (all ages) with unmet needs, including at alternative/residential placements.
I believe that every student's learning potential can be unlocked through the power of care, and I strive to make that a reality.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist specializing in the assessment and intervention for learning/emotional/intellectual/executive functions disorders. Through evidence-based and mindful exploration, I unravel clients' challenges, and guide them toward a healthy, happy and fulfilling sense of self and educational experience. My passion is supporting children, adolescents and adults who, for one reason or another, have struggled to engage with the conventional educational system. I specialize in the assessment and placement of students (all ages) with unmet needs, including at alternative/residential placements.
(415) 592-7852 View (415) 592-7852
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868
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.
(424) 397-2749 View (424) 397-2749
Photo of Amy Noall, LEP, NCSP, MS, PPS
Amy Noall
LEP, NCSP, MS, PPS
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93314
Is your child struggling with reading, writing or math? We diagnose DYSLEXIA, DYSGRAPHIA and DYSCALCULIA. We provide screenings and full evaluations. Screenings are more affordable and provide much needed data about your child's learning style and needs. Screenings usually take one testing session and a consultation afterwards to review the results. Full evaluations take several sessions and provide a thorough, detailed report. We also consult and advocate with parents and students on the IEP process/504 plans. Check out our website to learn more of the TUTORING, TESTING, and THERAPIES that we offer: www.thescholarsgrove.com
Is your child struggling with reading, writing or math? We diagnose DYSLEXIA, DYSGRAPHIA and DYSCALCULIA. We provide screenings and full evaluations. Screenings are more affordable and provide much needed data about your child's learning style and needs. Screenings usually take one testing session and a consultation afterwards to review the results. Full evaluations take several sessions and provide a thorough, detailed report. We also consult and advocate with parents and students on the IEP process/504 plans. Check out our website to learn more of the TUTORING, TESTING, and THERAPIES that we offer: www.thescholarsgrove.com
(661) 338-6372 View (661) 338-6372
Photo of Dr. Megan L. Dennison, PsyD, ABSNP, LEP, Psychological Associate
Dr. Megan L. Dennison
Psychological Associate, PsyD, ABSNP, LEP
Verified Verified
I provide assessments to assist in understanding brain styles that include a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, general learning disabilities, as well as emotional disabilities, and other developmental disabilities.
I believe that we all have a unique brain narrative and the more you know about yourself, the more engaged you can be in creating a life that stays true to your authentic self. Gaining an understanding of your emotional, behavioral, and cognitive narrative can provide insights about your work/career development, learning, relationships, and beyond. Assessment allows you to understand your strengths and weaknesses and better understand how your brain processes information. Similarly, therapy is an experience that allows you to expand your knowledge base, skillset, and understanding of your world.
I provide assessments to assist in understanding brain styles that include a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, general learning disabilities, as well as emotional disabilities, and other developmental disabilities.
I believe that we all have a unique brain narrative and the more you know about yourself, the more engaged you can be in creating a life that stays true to your authentic self. Gaining an understanding of your emotional, behavioral, and cognitive narrative can provide insights about your work/career development, learning, relationships, and beyond. Assessment allows you to understand your strengths and weaknesses and better understand how your brain processes information. Similarly, therapy is an experience that allows you to expand your knowledge base, skillset, and understanding of your world.
(949) 787-2532 View (949) 787-2532
Photo of Donica Dohrenwend, PhD, Psychologist
Donica Dohrenwend
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
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.
(858) 461-6631 View (858) 461-6631
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
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.
(949) 461-1089 View (949) 461-1089
Photo of Erich Haezebrouck, PsyD, Psychologist
Erich Haezebrouck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murrieta, CA 92562
Following an assessment, I will provide you with a thorough report that includes a long list of recommendations that will help meet you or your child’s learning or emotional needs.
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.
Following an assessment, I will provide you with a thorough report that includes a long list of recommendations that will help meet you or your child’s learning or emotional needs.
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.
(951) 215-7630 View (951) 215-7630
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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.