Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Ottawa, IL

Photo of Ashley Holcman - Kokoro Counseling, LLC, LCPC, NCC, EMDR, CMHIMP, Counselor
Kokoro Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, EMDR, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, IL 61350
Did you know that over a quarter of Americans seek professional counseling? If you are here, chances are you are suffering from anxiety, depression, loss, struggling with your relationships, or adjusting to life in general, and you are not alone! Seeking help in the form of therapy is the first step toward relief, happiness, and change. My name is Ashley Holcman and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. My goal is to create a warm, comfortable, safe environment that will allow you to feel completely at ease to discuss what is troubling you.
Did you know that over a quarter of Americans seek professional counseling? If you are here, chances are you are suffering from anxiety, depression, loss, struggling with your relationships, or adjusting to life in general, and you are not alone! Seeking help in the form of therapy is the first step toward relief, happiness, and change. My name is Ashley Holcman and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. My goal is to create a warm, comfortable, safe environment that will allow you to feel completely at ease to discuss what is troubling you.
(815) 998-8689 View (815) 998-8689
Photo of Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond, MS, ED, PSY, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jesse Rodriguez-Hammond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ED, PSY
Verified Verified
Ottawa, IL 61350
Are you feeling “stuck,” unheard, and looking for someone who understands? Does your family not look like everyone else’s? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am here to help. As a married gay man with six adopted children, I know that all families don’t look alike. I work with adults, children, families, and couples (marital and premarital) and those who struggle with parenting, foster parenting, bio-parent reunification, foster care trauma, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, marriage, and LGBTQ issues.
Are you feeling “stuck,” unheard, and looking for someone who understands? Does your family not look like everyone else’s? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I am here to help. As a married gay man with six adopted children, I know that all families don’t look alike. I work with adults, children, families, and couples (marital and premarital) and those who struggle with parenting, foster parenting, bio-parent reunification, foster care trauma, anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, marriage, and LGBTQ issues.
(815) 367-8434 View (815) 367-8434

Online Therapists

Photo of Mariana Gonzalez, LPC, MAATC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariana Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAATC
Verified Verified
Cicero, IL 60804  (Online Only)
My ideal client may be grappling with questions of identity, purpose, or direction. They may feel disconnected from themselves, unsure of where they belong, or uncertain about their next steps. They're learning to reconnect with their authentic self and find clarity. Their goal is to explore their emotions through creative expression whether it’s art, writing, or other forms of self-exploration and explore who they are at their core and learn how to live in alignment with their values. They are tired of feeling lost or like they’re living someone else’s life, and they’re ready to make meaningful changes.
My ideal client may be grappling with questions of identity, purpose, or direction. They may feel disconnected from themselves, unsure of where they belong, or uncertain about their next steps. They're learning to reconnect with their authentic self and find clarity. Their goal is to explore their emotions through creative expression whether it’s art, writing, or other forms of self-exploration and explore who they are at their core and learn how to live in alignment with their values. They are tired of feeling lost or like they’re living someone else’s life, and they’re ready to make meaningful changes.
(708) 847-4760 View (708) 847-4760
Photo of Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
(872) 266-7949 View (872) 266-7949
Photo of Sandy Wolff, MA, EdD, EdS, Counselor
Sandy Wolff
Counselor, MA, EdD, EdS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have over 20 years of testing experience as a Licensed Diagnostician, Educational Psychologist, and School Psychologist. I specialize in psychoeducational & neuro/psychological testing for children, teens, college students, and adults. I evaluate for ADHD, executive functioning, anxiety, mood, developmental concerns, social anxiety, social difficulties, personality traits, adjustment issues, 504/IEP, learning challenges, college & graduate school testing, college career assessment profiles, & more. I worked with many school districts as a child advocate/consultant/school psychologist, including North Shore, Lincolnwood, & NSSED
I have over 20 years of testing experience as a Licensed Diagnostician, Educational Psychologist, and School Psychologist. I specialize in psychoeducational & neuro/psychological testing for children, teens, college students, and adults. I evaluate for ADHD, executive functioning, anxiety, mood, developmental concerns, social anxiety, social difficulties, personality traits, adjustment issues, 504/IEP, learning challenges, college & graduate school testing, college career assessment profiles, & more. I worked with many school districts as a child advocate/consultant/school psychologist, including North Shore, Lincolnwood, & NSSED
(224) 628-7425 View (224) 628-7425
Photo of Clark Kopelman, MSW, EdS, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Clark Kopelman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, EdS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Thank you for having the courage to seek an ally in your journey, whether you are looking for relief from distress or data to help inform your goals. I know that this is one of the hardest steps in seeking help. I have been working with children, teens, and families for 25 years in both in-patient and out-patient settings, providing therapy and psycho-educational assessments. Much of my work has been in school settings when mental health and learning differences impact academics, as well as a specialization in work with highly gifted and talented students.
Thank you for having the courage to seek an ally in your journey, whether you are looking for relief from distress or data to help inform your goals. I know that this is one of the hardest steps in seeking help. I have been working with children, teens, and families for 25 years in both in-patient and out-patient settings, providing therapy and psycho-educational assessments. Much of my work has been in school settings when mental health and learning differences impact academics, as well as a specialization in work with highly gifted and talented students.
(224) 348-3998 View (224) 348-3998
Photo of Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
Common concerns include: ADHD, Learning Disorders, Behavior Problems, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Brain Injury/Concussions, Emotional Difficulties, Neurological Conditions (e.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
(708) 419-2072 View (708) 419-2072
Photo of Lisa Catalano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Catalano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have significant experience in working with those faced with anxiety, school phobia, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and other learning problems.
As a clinical social worker practicing for decades, I continue to believe that establishing a positive therapeutic relationship is critical for client success. Trust takes time however, and needs to be earned. Clients are made comfortable through using humor and a genuine interest in their life story. The power of creativity to solve problems and enhance the quality of one’s life is foundational.
I have significant experience in working with those faced with anxiety, school phobia, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and other learning problems.
As a clinical social worker practicing for decades, I continue to believe that establishing a positive therapeutic relationship is critical for client success. Trust takes time however, and needs to be earned. Clients are made comfortable through using humor and a genuine interest in their life story. The power of creativity to solve problems and enhance the quality of one’s life is foundational.
(331) 717-0609 View (331) 717-0609
Photo of Hannah Sullivan, LSW, SSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, SSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
Are you looking for a therapist for yourself, your child, and/or your family? I am a Licensed Social Worker who provides in home and virtual therapy. I started my work within Chicago public schools, where I focused on providing therapy to a wide range of individuals. I focus on providing therapeutic services to neurodivergent individuals who may experience ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, emotional disabilities, developmental delays, traumatic brain injuries, and specific learning / intellectual disabilities. I am passionate and love what I do and hope my clients feel my authenticity throughout their time in therapy!
Are you looking for a therapist for yourself, your child, and/or your family? I am a Licensed Social Worker who provides in home and virtual therapy. I started my work within Chicago public schools, where I focused on providing therapy to a wide range of individuals. I focus on providing therapeutic services to neurodivergent individuals who may experience ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, emotional disabilities, developmental delays, traumatic brain injuries, and specific learning / intellectual disabilities. I am passionate and love what I do and hope my clients feel my authenticity throughout their time in therapy!
(815) 869-9760 View (815) 869-9760
Photo of Margaret A Grau, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret A Grau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Issues that I frequently address include life transitions, trauma and loss, women's issues, learning disabilities, giftedness, and relationship difficulties.
   •    COVID-19  UPDATE:   http://margaretgrau.net/covid/    •     I help people to discover the best within themselves, and to use their strengths to overcome internal and external obstacles to success. I am interested in working with a wide range of clients and concerns. My approach is to work collaboratively to resolve conflicts that may be impeding your progress.
Issues that I frequently address include life transitions, trauma and loss, women's issues, learning disabilities, giftedness, and relationship difficulties.
   •    COVID-19  UPDATE:   http://margaretgrau.net/covid/    •     I help people to discover the best within themselves, and to use their strengths to overcome internal and external obstacles to success. I am interested in working with a wide range of clients and concerns. My approach is to work collaboratively to resolve conflicts that may be impeding your progress.
(847) 416-0306 View (847) 416-0306
Photo of Dr. Cedric Williams - Williams Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Williams Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Our work with clients is meant to be supportive and comprehensive. We begin by learning about our clients, the situation, and their goals. We gather information through listening and engaging our clients over several appointments. We will then discuss practical next-steps that are relevant to each client's experience. Our services include psychotherapy and psychological testing. Our brief psychotherapy model seeks to help individuals, couples, and families flourish. Our psychological testing services can provide diagnostic assessment for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, IQ, forensic evaluation and others.
Our work with clients is meant to be supportive and comprehensive. We begin by learning about our clients, the situation, and their goals. We gather information through listening and engaging our clients over several appointments. We will then discuss practical next-steps that are relevant to each client's experience. Our services include psychotherapy and psychological testing. Our brief psychotherapy model seeks to help individuals, couples, and families flourish. Our psychological testing services can provide diagnostic assessment for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, IQ, forensic evaluation and others.
(309) 245-7462 View (309) 245-7462
Photo of Jamie Albright, PhD, Psychologist
Jamie Albright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I apply a neurodiversity-affirming approach to psychological testing and evaluations for individuals ages 12+ with learning and attention concerns.
Making changes in our lives can feel impossible at times, even when our habits and thinking patterns no longer serve us. In the therapy room, I practice radical acceptance with the ups and downs of growth with humor, patience, and curiosity. Grounded in the DBT tradition, I prioritize nonjudgment and dialectical thinking: we can accept difficult realities and still lead a life worth living.
I apply a neurodiversity-affirming approach to psychological testing and evaluations for individuals ages 12+ with learning and attention concerns.
Making changes in our lives can feel impossible at times, even when our habits and thinking patterns no longer serve us. In the therapy room, I practice radical acceptance with the ups and downs of growth with humor, patience, and curiosity. Grounded in the DBT tradition, I prioritize nonjudgment and dialectical thinking: we can accept difficult realities and still lead a life worth living.
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Photo of Tzia Hibler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tzia Hibler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134  (Online Only)
I have worked with my community to provide clinical services to community violence victims, teen parents, youth and families, LGBTQA+, and individuals with learning disabilities.
Hi, my name is, Tzia Hibler and I am glad you have taken the first step to seek support in your life. Challenges, barriers, and setbacks happen in life for many reasons. Every battle does not have to be faced alone. I am here to support you in what you want to face. I am an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in Illinois. I have my Master’s in Social work with a concentration in schools, from the University of Illinois - Urbana, Champaign. I have experience in public schools, and community-based practices as a therapist and social worker working with a vast array of demographics.
I have worked with my community to provide clinical services to community violence victims, teen parents, youth and families, LGBTQA+, and individuals with learning disabilities.
Hi, my name is, Tzia Hibler and I am glad you have taken the first step to seek support in your life. Challenges, barriers, and setbacks happen in life for many reasons. Every battle does not have to be faced alone. I am here to support you in what you want to face. I am an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in Illinois. I have my Master’s in Social work with a concentration in schools, from the University of Illinois - Urbana, Champaign. I have experience in public schools, and community-based practices as a therapist and social worker working with a vast array of demographics.
(630) 216-4266 View (630) 216-4266
Photo of Rosemichelle Gourdet - Global Psychoeducational Solutions, EdS, NCSP
Global Psychoeducational Solutions
EdS, NCSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
At Global Psychoeducational Solutions, we help parents navigate their child’s learning challenges, whether it’s dyslexia, ADHD, or other educational difficulties. We offer tailored psychoeducational assessments using digital tools, providing in-depth insights into your child’s needs. Our goal is to support your child’s educational success with effective, data-driven strategies. Let’s work together to make learning easier and more productive for your child.
At Global Psychoeducational Solutions, we help parents navigate their child’s learning challenges, whether it’s dyslexia, ADHD, or other educational difficulties. We offer tailored psychoeducational assessments using digital tools, providing in-depth insights into your child’s needs. Our goal is to support your child’s educational success with effective, data-driven strategies. Let’s work together to make learning easier and more productive for your child.
(872) 278-3954 View (872) 278-3954
Photo of Jennifer Jerominski, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jerominski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Roselle, IL 60172
I enjoy working with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disabilities, depression, anxiety, trauma behavior concerns/challenges, bullying and those facing medical challenges through individual sessions, family group therapy, as well as collaborating with the client’s support team (school support team and/or medical team) if needed. I also have personal and professional experience working with the geriatric population and their family (caregivers) as they face life changing medical challenges along with life transitions.
I enjoy working with children and adolescents diagnosed with Autism Spectrum, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disabilities, depression, anxiety, trauma behavior concerns/challenges, bullying and those facing medical challenges through individual sessions, family group therapy, as well as collaborating with the client’s support team (school support team and/or medical team) if needed. I also have personal and professional experience working with the geriatric population and their family (caregivers) as they face life changing medical challenges along with life transitions.
(630) 755-6458 View (630) 755-6458
Photo of Katie M Beerman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie M Beerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is working with students with anxiety or depression along side ADHD and/or a learning disability.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s of Science Degree in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. I have over 14 years of experience working with college age and adult students with learning disabilities, mental health issues, and other conditions requiring the need for academic accommodations. Since 2019 I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques in private practice to work with clients 11 years old to adults diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD and other mental health conditions.
My passion is working with students with anxiety or depression along side ADHD and/or a learning disability.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s of Science Degree in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. I have over 14 years of experience working with college age and adult students with learning disabilities, mental health issues, and other conditions requiring the need for academic accommodations. Since 2019 I have utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques in private practice to work with clients 11 years old to adults diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD and other mental health conditions.
(224) 268-9453 View (224) 268-9453
Photo of Pete B Marcelo - Dr. Pete Marcelo Psychologist & Counseling Huntley, MSW, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Pete Marcelo Psychologist & Counseling Huntley
Psychologist, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
I have extensive experience with children, adolescents, couples, and families with ADHD, ANGER, ANXIETY, AUTISTIM SPECTRUM, BEHAVIOR, LEARNING, MOOD DISORDERS, CAREER CHALLENGES, DEPRESSION, OCD, EATING DISORDERS, and FEARS/PHOBIAS.
Together, we will focus on solutions and help you learn to cope with life's challenges; so you can enjoy it to the fullest. I have over 25 years of experience guiding clients to achieve optimal well being and performance. Taking a team approach with my clients and strongly believing in the value of the therapeutic relationship, I empower you to make decisions in the treatment process. As opposed to some approaches of therapy which may take several years, I believe in the efficacy of a briefer counseling model which includes solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapies. Visit www.drpetemarcelo.org for more information.
I have extensive experience with children, adolescents, couples, and families with ADHD, ANGER, ANXIETY, AUTISTIM SPECTRUM, BEHAVIOR, LEARNING, MOOD DISORDERS, CAREER CHALLENGES, DEPRESSION, OCD, EATING DISORDERS, and FEARS/PHOBIAS.
Together, we will focus on solutions and help you learn to cope with life's challenges; so you can enjoy it to the fullest. I have over 25 years of experience guiding clients to achieve optimal well being and performance. Taking a team approach with my clients and strongly believing in the value of the therapeutic relationship, I empower you to make decisions in the treatment process. As opposed to some approaches of therapy which may take several years, I believe in the efficacy of a briefer counseling model which includes solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapies. Visit www.drpetemarcelo.org for more information.
(847) 456-6498 View (847) 456-6498
Photo of Rachel Winborn, MFA, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
Rachel’s creative background lends itself to an intuitive therapeutic practice and her recent training as a Social Worker brings her grounded in the world of each individual she works with. Rachel is an attuned, empathetic listener, who focuses on her clients’ needs. She has experience working with persons with chronic distress, complex PTSD, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning differences), faith-based injury/inquiry, grief/loss, identity, life transitions, parenting, family, and relationship issues.
(630) 446-6692 View (630) 446-6692
Photo of Cecily A. Kanter, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Cecily A. Kanter
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
I work with individuals and families diagnosed with: autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disabilities, anxiety, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
"Your Comfort and Your Health" is always a priority with me. My goal as a psychologist is to provide meaningful, compassionate, and successful therapy. Successful clients have reported that I have provided them with a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment for treatment, which allowed them to grow and develop new strengths. I utilize a number of strategies to engage individuals and families in treatment, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral (CBT), client centered and family therapies. I believe in and facilitate a strength-based approach to treatment, allowing the individual to develop and recognize their personal strengths.
I work with individuals and families diagnosed with: autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning disabilities, anxiety, mood disorders, and postpartum depression.
"Your Comfort and Your Health" is always a priority with me. My goal as a psychologist is to provide meaningful, compassionate, and successful therapy. Successful clients have reported that I have provided them with a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment for treatment, which allowed them to grow and develop new strengths. I utilize a number of strategies to engage individuals and families in treatment, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral (CBT), client centered and family therapies. I believe in and facilitate a strength-based approach to treatment, allowing the individual to develop and recognize their personal strengths.
(847) 453-3526 View (847) 453-3526
Photo of Corinne Serra Smith, EdD, LCPC, NCSP, Counselor
Corinne Serra Smith
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCSP
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
Are you someone facing challenges with transitions, relationships, work or school? Are you looking for life coaching or support with executive functioning? I enjoy helping individuals with diverse needs including anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, health issues, gender identity, self advocacy and more. Would you like to feel better and set reasonable goals for yourself by engaging in a compassionate, therapeutic relationship? Whether you find in person, teletherapy or “animal assisted therapy” helpful we have options for creating relaxed, productive sessions! I am here to help!
(331) 979-3104 View (331) 979-3104

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.