Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Elise Vela, PsyD, Psychologist
Elise Vela
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I work with children, teenagers, and adults to assess for Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, social/emotional difficulties, and more.
For those currently feeling challenged by school, work, relationships, anxiety, executive functioning, or mood regulation, an accurate assessment can provide appropriate diagnoses, treatment plans, and a deeper self-understanding. Life's challenges are complex and knowing how to navigate them can be overwhelming. I conduct comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations to empower individuals and families. Using a systemic and individually tailored approach, an evaluation is used for identifying strengths, learning styles, and limitations. This allows for specific treatment and/or school-based recommendations.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults to assess for Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, social/emotional difficulties, and more.
For those currently feeling challenged by school, work, relationships, anxiety, executive functioning, or mood regulation, an accurate assessment can provide appropriate diagnoses, treatment plans, and a deeper self-understanding. Life's challenges are complex and knowing how to navigate them can be overwhelming. I conduct comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations to empower individuals and families. Using a systemic and individually tailored approach, an evaluation is used for identifying strengths, learning styles, and limitations. This allows for specific treatment and/or school-based recommendations.
(484) 246-8162 View (484) 246-8162
Photo of Abby Baker, PsyD, Counselor
Abby Baker
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
It is hard to describe to others, how much a learning disability and/or mental health issues can impact someone's life.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a graduate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007, and have dedicated my career to providing exceptional mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Throughout my professional journey, I have continually sought opportunities to expand my expertise and enhance my ability to serve my clients. It was during this pursuit that I discovered a passion for psychological testing, recognizing its potential to provide deeper insights and more tailored interventions for those in need.
It is hard to describe to others, how much a learning disability and/or mental health issues can impact someone's life.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a graduate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007, and have dedicated my career to providing exceptional mental health services to individuals across the lifespan. Throughout my professional journey, I have continually sought opportunities to expand my expertise and enhance my ability to serve my clients. It was during this pursuit that I discovered a passion for psychological testing, recognizing its potential to provide deeper insights and more tailored interventions for those in need.
(267) 550-7021 View (267) 550-7021
Photo of Sara M Evans, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara M Evans
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist who specializes in private school admissions testing, psychoeducational testing to determine the presence of learning disabilities or ADHD, parent counseling, and therapy with children, adolescents, college students, and adults.
I am a clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist who specializes in private school admissions testing, psychoeducational testing to determine the presence of learning disabilities or ADHD, parent counseling, and therapy with children, adolescents, college students, and adults.
(215) 970-2367 View (215) 970-2367
Photo of Staci Heindel, PhD, Psychologist
Staci Heindel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I am a Licensed Psychologist and PA Certified School Psychologist with over fifteen years experience in the identification and remediation of learning, behavioral, and emotional differences in preschool through college aged individuals. My primary areas of practice include psychoeducational assessment, school admissions testing, and consultation with parents and schools. I have taught doctoral level courses in assessment and have administration experience as the former Co-Director of Assessment Services and Coordinator of School Admissions Services at Bryn Mawr College Child Study Institute. I serve on the Board of the PA Branch of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Specialist of Schools Planning Committee.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and PA Certified School Psychologist with over fifteen years experience in the identification and remediation of learning, behavioral, and emotional differences in preschool through college aged individuals. My primary areas of practice include psychoeducational assessment, school admissions testing, and consultation with parents and schools. I have taught doctoral level courses in assessment and have administration experience as the former Co-Director of Assessment Services and Coordinator of School Admissions Services at Bryn Mawr College Child Study Institute. I serve on the Board of the PA Branch of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Specialist of Schools Planning Committee.
(215) 436-9907 View (215) 436-9907
Photo of Steven Gumerman, PhD, CSP, Psychologist
Steven Gumerman
Psychologist, PhD, CSP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19152
Gumerman has experience in counseling, educational and school psychology including vocational evaluation and learning disabilities.
Dr. Gumerman is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist. He offers testing and comprehensive evaluations for children and adults with learning problems, emotional and behavioral issues from elementary school through college. Dr. Gumerman evaluates students of all ages, as well as college graduates and adults who may need special support services. These may include specific testing to diagnose a learning disability. Dr. Gumerman also provides psycho-educational evaluations for persons seeking special accommodations for advanced test taking (GMAT, LSAT, SAT, GRE, MCAT) and other examinations where consideration may be needed for special accommodations in the State of Pennsylvania
Gumerman has experience in counseling, educational and school psychology including vocational evaluation and learning disabilities.
Dr. Gumerman is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist. He offers testing and comprehensive evaluations for children and adults with learning problems, emotional and behavioral issues from elementary school through college. Dr. Gumerman evaluates students of all ages, as well as college graduates and adults who may need special support services. These may include specific testing to diagnose a learning disability. Dr. Gumerman also provides psycho-educational evaluations for persons seeking special accommodations for advanced test taking (GMAT, LSAT, SAT, GRE, MCAT) and other examinations where consideration may be needed for special accommodations in the State of Pennsylvania
(215) 458-5647 View (215) 458-5647
Photo of Jessica Asch, MA, LCAT, RDT
Jessica Asch
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, RDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19148
As a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) and a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT), in New York and Philadelphia, I believe that creativity is essential to the journey towards self-discovery and transformation. I explore patterns that may no longer be serving you, while highlighting the parts of self that are adaptive. I work with adolescents and adults who have been impacted by trauma, anxiety, infertility/loss, perinatal/postpartum, relationship issues, learning differences, and the artists journey. I'm queer affirming, and work from an anti- oppressive/ trauma informed lens.
As a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) and a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT), in New York and Philadelphia, I believe that creativity is essential to the journey towards self-discovery and transformation. I explore patterns that may no longer be serving you, while highlighting the parts of self that are adaptive. I work with adolescents and adults who have been impacted by trauma, anxiety, infertility/loss, perinatal/postpartum, relationship issues, learning differences, and the artists journey. I'm queer affirming, and work from an anti- oppressive/ trauma informed lens.
(516) 260-4374 View (516) 260-4374
Photo of Dr. Carrie Champ Morera, PsyD, BC-TMH, Psychologist
Dr. Carrie Champ Morera
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients—I help children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning difficulties, adjustment issues, and mental health concerns. They seek understanding, support, and effective strategies to manage their mental health and educational challenges. Their primary goal is to achieve improved well-being, better academic performance, enhanced social skills, and successful adjustment to life's transitions. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can express their feelings, gain insight, and develop practical skills for overcoming their difficulties to reach their potential.
Accepting New Patients—I help children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning difficulties, adjustment issues, and mental health concerns. They seek understanding, support, and effective strategies to manage their mental health and educational challenges. Their primary goal is to achieve improved well-being, better academic performance, enhanced social skills, and successful adjustment to life's transitions. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can express their feelings, gain insight, and develop practical skills for overcoming their difficulties to reach their potential.
(727) 604-9939 View (727) 604-9939
Photo of Justin Levitan, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Levitan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
I am a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I obtained my MSW from the University of Pennsylvania and have since focused my practice on assisting clients with Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Skills Groups, Difficult & Oppositional Adolescents, and Therapeutic Wilderness Program Transitions. ​ My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, emphasizing empathy and understanding. I believe in the importance of meeting clients where they are and working together to achieve their goals.
I am a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I obtained my MSW from the University of Pennsylvania and have since focused my practice on assisting clients with Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Skills Groups, Difficult & Oppositional Adolescents, and Therapeutic Wilderness Program Transitions. ​ My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, emphasizing empathy and understanding. I believe in the importance of meeting clients where they are and working together to achieve their goals.
(484) 623-5522 View (484) 623-5522
Photo of William J Ernst, PsyD, Psychologist
William J Ernst
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Neuropsychological evaluation and consultation for learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, concussion, traumatic brain injury, dementia, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to provide clinical services that are practical and informed by research. I do not employ a receptionist or any other support professionals. Therefore, when you call, I will always be the one that answers the phone. I am thorough and collaborative. Typically, I obtain information from multiple sources as appropriate including parents, partners, spouses, teachers and other healthcare professionals (e.g. physicians) with your consent. This allows me to develop a more comprehensive understanding of what is causing you or your family member's difficulties and how I can better help you.
Neuropsychological evaluation and consultation for learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, concussion, traumatic brain injury, dementia, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to provide clinical services that are practical and informed by research. I do not employ a receptionist or any other support professionals. Therefore, when you call, I will always be the one that answers the phone. I am thorough and collaborative. Typically, I obtain information from multiple sources as appropriate including parents, partners, spouses, teachers and other healthcare professionals (e.g. physicians) with your consent. This allows me to develop a more comprehensive understanding of what is causing you or your family member's difficulties and how I can better help you.
(215) 995-5002 View (215) 995-5002
Photo of Raquel Romirowsky, PsyD, Psychologist
Raquel Romirowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I also have particular expertise in treating college students with learning disabilities, anxiety, and ADHD.
My clients come to me at a time in their life when they are feeling overwhelmed and realize it’s ok to get some help. They need to expand their repertoire of coping skills for anxiety and stress or figure out how to navigate a major life change, such as school, being in a new role at work, parenting a challenging child, dating or being in a romantic relationship, to name just a few examples. I also work with kids who are suffering from anxiety or sleep issues. All of my clients want to feel back to their best selves, know they can handle what life throws at them, and feel happy, successful, and fulfilled.
I also have particular expertise in treating college students with learning disabilities, anxiety, and ADHD.
My clients come to me at a time in their life when they are feeling overwhelmed and realize it’s ok to get some help. They need to expand their repertoire of coping skills for anxiety and stress or figure out how to navigate a major life change, such as school, being in a new role at work, parenting a challenging child, dating or being in a romantic relationship, to name just a few examples. I also work with kids who are suffering from anxiety or sleep issues. All of my clients want to feel back to their best selves, know they can handle what life throws at them, and feel happy, successful, and fulfilled.
(267) 732-1785 View (267) 732-1785
Photo of Kyle M. Gilliam - Therapy Based LTD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy Based LTD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients with learning disabilities, behavioral issues, trauma, addiction preschool through high school students and adults with comorbid diagnoses and LGBTQIA+.
I am open to all clients regardless of their background and identity. Anyone struggling, experiencing emotional hardships, feeling stuck, dealing with mental health concerns, or addiction is welcome. My goal is to empower and support personal growth, and emotional development. We can explore and learn from experiences, feelings, and actions. Sometimes all we need is someone to listen and hear what we need to say, there is space for you and everything that you choose to bring. As a Queer Black therapist, I am invested in working with Black, Brown, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodivergent communities. I also speak Spanish.
I have experience working with clients with learning disabilities, behavioral issues, trauma, addiction preschool through high school students and adults with comorbid diagnoses and LGBTQIA+.
I am open to all clients regardless of their background and identity. Anyone struggling, experiencing emotional hardships, feeling stuck, dealing with mental health concerns, or addiction is welcome. My goal is to empower and support personal growth, and emotional development. We can explore and learn from experiences, feelings, and actions. Sometimes all we need is someone to listen and hear what we need to say, there is space for you and everything that you choose to bring. As a Queer Black therapist, I am invested in working with Black, Brown, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodivergent communities. I also speak Spanish.
(215) 712-8984 View (215) 712-8984
Photo of Carolyn Seplow, LCSW, MSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Seplow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Tweens and teens are undergoing a wondrous and uncertain time of discovery and growth. Parent/child conflicts become common and risky behaviors more prevalent. Navigating this territory may be a time of great uncertainty and tension. For 20 years I have been helping children and families work through issues such as depression and anxiety, friendship or school problems, communication and social troubles, on-line behavior and family conflict, sexuality and gender questions, and autism and learning differences. Call and we can discuss your particular concerns and decide if I would be a good fit for you and/or your child.
Tweens and teens are undergoing a wondrous and uncertain time of discovery and growth. Parent/child conflicts become common and risky behaviors more prevalent. Navigating this territory may be a time of great uncertainty and tension. For 20 years I have been helping children and families work through issues such as depression and anxiety, friendship or school problems, communication and social troubles, on-line behavior and family conflict, sexuality and gender questions, and autism and learning differences. Call and we can discuss your particular concerns and decide if I would be a good fit for you and/or your child.
(215) 918-4836 View (215) 918-4836
Photo of Abby S Applebaum, PsyD, Psychologist
Abby S Applebaum
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
In that time, I conducted hundreds of evaluations and helped teachers and parents understand their children's particular learning needs.
I am a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with over 25 years experience. In my practice, I help children, teens and their families successfully navigate life's challenges by building on strengths to help overcome obstacles. I combine evidence based practice and real life application to address issues such as academic stress, anxiety, divorce and depression. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative and parents are meaningfully involved in the therapeutic process.
In that time, I conducted hundreds of evaluations and helped teachers and parents understand their children's particular learning needs.
I am a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with over 25 years experience. In my practice, I help children, teens and their families successfully navigate life's challenges by building on strengths to help overcome obstacles. I combine evidence based practice and real life application to address issues such as academic stress, anxiety, divorce and depression. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative and parents are meaningfully involved in the therapeutic process.
(215) 584-4170 View (215) 584-4170
Photo of Jonathan Levin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Levin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19152  (Online Only)
You can begin the process of learning about yourself from your home.
Life these days can feel like you are on a roller coaster that doesn’t stop. This can lead to having very intense emotions, ones that feel overwhelming and hopeless. Maybe you are feeling extreme loneliness? Feeling so stressed that it’s hard to focus, or you just don’t feel like doing much of anything lately. Intense negative feelings can affect your physical health your relationships, sleep, and job or school performance. For some, anxiety or sadness can lead to outbursts of anger or feelings of worthlessness inside. It is important to learn about yourself, what is causing these feelings, and to know that there are solutions.
You can begin the process of learning about yourself from your home.
Life these days can feel like you are on a roller coaster that doesn’t stop. This can lead to having very intense emotions, ones that feel overwhelming and hopeless. Maybe you are feeling extreme loneliness? Feeling so stressed that it’s hard to focus, or you just don’t feel like doing much of anything lately. Intense negative feelings can affect your physical health your relationships, sleep, and job or school performance. For some, anxiety or sadness can lead to outbursts of anger or feelings of worthlessness inside. It is important to learn about yourself, what is causing these feelings, and to know that there are solutions.
(215) 309-9673 View (215) 309-9673
Photo of Robert Sher, PhD, MEd
Robert Sher
PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
Working at a small practice like Alternative Choices allows me to use all of my training to help a variety of clients with many types of concerns and challenges. I work with individuals, families, couples or groups, from middle school age through adulthood, to address issues related to learning disabilities, attention-deficit disorder, autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, social skills, and others. I incorporate mindfulness techniques and strategies into more conventional modes of therapy to help my clients confront, tolerate, accept, and ultimately embrace difficult emotions and moods, in order to improve the quality of their lives and relationships.
Working at a small practice like Alternative Choices allows me to use all of my training to help a variety of clients with many types of concerns and challenges. I work with individuals, families, couples or groups, from middle school age through adulthood, to address issues related to learning disabilities, attention-deficit disorder, autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, social skills, and others. I incorporate mindfulness techniques and strategies into more conventional modes of therapy to help my clients confront, tolerate, accept, and ultimately embrace difficult emotions and moods, in order to improve the quality of their lives and relationships.
(215) 600-1434 x3 View (215) 600-1434 x3
Katherine Martin, Psychological Services
Psychologist, MEd, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Therapeutic services include individual and family therapy in managing the challenges of ASD, emotional issues and learning differences.
I have worked with children, their parents and teachers for over 25 years performing comprehensive cognitive, neuropsychological, developmental, educational and personality assessment. My practice includes developing strategies for children and adolescents with learning, emotional and developmental disabilities which includes parent training, advocacy and teacher consultation. I also perform evaluations for eligibility for gifted and talented programs, adolescents who need accommodations for taking the SAT's and educational support plans for higher education. I have extensive training and experience in the development of programs for children with high functioning autism, ADHD, dyslexia and complex learning disorders.
Therapeutic services include individual and family therapy in managing the challenges of ASD, emotional issues and learning differences.
I have worked with children, their parents and teachers for over 25 years performing comprehensive cognitive, neuropsychological, developmental, educational and personality assessment. My practice includes developing strategies for children and adolescents with learning, emotional and developmental disabilities which includes parent training, advocacy and teacher consultation. I also perform evaluations for eligibility for gifted and talented programs, adolescents who need accommodations for taking the SAT's and educational support plans for higher education. I have extensive training and experience in the development of programs for children with high functioning autism, ADHD, dyslexia and complex learning disorders.
(215) 309-9270 View (215) 309-9270
Photo of Michele Robins, Psychologist
Michele Robins
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Michele Robins, Ph.D., ACT is a licensed and school certified psychologist. Dr. Robins is a fellow of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and she trains other professionals to learn the most effective therapy interventions. Her goal is to provide the best care and support for her clients and she provides counseling for individuals seeking further intervention for developmental disorders, learning and memory disorders, and mood problems throughout the lifespan. With over thirty years of experience, she integrates cognitive behavior therapy and family therapy,
Michele Robins, Ph.D., ACT is a licensed and school certified psychologist. Dr. Robins is a fellow of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy and she trains other professionals to learn the most effective therapy interventions. Her goal is to provide the best care and support for her clients and she provides counseling for individuals seeking further intervention for developmental disorders, learning and memory disorders, and mood problems throughout the lifespan. With over thirty years of experience, she integrates cognitive behavior therapy and family therapy,
(484) 546-7076 View (484) 546-7076
Photo of Debra M Szymanski, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra M Szymanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19116  (Online Only)
Have you struggled with issues concerning impulsiveness, distractibility, or hyperactivity? If so you may be one of millions of adults or children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Many adults suffer with these issues and never know they are part of a larger diagnosis of ADHD. I have provided therapy for several years to individuals who are experiencing these symptoms, but these alone may not be the whole picture. You may also experience anxiety, depression, learning issues or relationship struggles. Together we can assess if you are struggling with ADHD and find solutions to your difficulties.
Have you struggled with issues concerning impulsiveness, distractibility, or hyperactivity? If so you may be one of millions of adults or children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Many adults suffer with these issues and never know they are part of a larger diagnosis of ADHD. I have provided therapy for several years to individuals who are experiencing these symptoms, but these alone may not be the whole picture. You may also experience anxiety, depression, learning issues or relationship struggles. Together we can assess if you are struggling with ADHD and find solutions to your difficulties.
(215) 598-6558 View (215) 598-6558
Photo of Sarah Graham Payne, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Graham Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
Along with doing therapy I worked as a school counselor for 17 years and can help navigate concerns with academics, social/emotional learning, and parenting.
My passion is working with individuals who are motivated to change to live a happy and more balanced life. I love working with diverse cultures and my lived experiences have helped shape my understanding of others. I consider family dynamics and their impact on the individual and am willing to work with an individual, couple or the family to help improve communication and conflict resolution strategies. Working with the needs of my clients gives me the ability to shift my approach. Life transitions are difficult. I am here to listen to your story and give you a safe space to create lasting change.
Along with doing therapy I worked as a school counselor for 17 years and can help navigate concerns with academics, social/emotional learning, and parenting.
My passion is working with individuals who are motivated to change to live a happy and more balanced life. I love working with diverse cultures and my lived experiences have helped shape my understanding of others. I consider family dynamics and their impact on the individual and am willing to work with an individual, couple or the family to help improve communication and conflict resolution strategies. Working with the needs of my clients gives me the ability to shift my approach. Life transitions are difficult. I am here to listen to your story and give you a safe space to create lasting change.
(267) 489-2697 View (267) 489-2697
Photo of Julie Abrams Faude, MA, PhD, PostDoc, Psychologist
Julie Abrams Faude
Psychologist, MA, PhD, PostDoc
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Do you need to drop into greater ease or “grounding”, but you keep getting “triggered” and respond in your old ways? Have you tried meditation or yoga, yet feel something is missing? Have you sensed true “flow” and playfulness in your interactions with others or within yourself, but, sadly, it is just not consistent? Educators, do seek being that teacher who moved you into this profession? Have you spent time learning how to develop your parenting and general relationship skills, but you keep reverting to prior patterns of reactivity? If so, try something new with me.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you need to drop into greater ease or “grounding”, but you keep getting “triggered” and respond in your old ways? Have you tried meditation or yoga, yet feel something is missing? Have you sensed true “flow” and playfulness in your interactions with others or within yourself, but, sadly, it is just not consistent? Educators, do seek being that teacher who moved you into this profession? Have you spent time learning how to develop your parenting and general relationship skills, but you keep reverting to prior patterns of reactivity? If so, try something new with me.
(484) 209-2564 View (484) 209-2564
1
...

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.