Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Newton, MA
![Photo of David A. Perna - David A. Perna, PhD, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/830e9b91-201e-4585-a683-f123da414f36/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat a range of diagnostic presentations and specialize in working with anger challenges, self-harming issues, learning/executive function challenges, and college transition issues.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have often had unsuccessful prior treatment experiences. They feel that my knowledge and holistic approach to treatment will provide them with a healthier pathway forward in their life. Although I have a depth of experience to share with my patients I value learning from them on a daily basis. To facilitate change I employ a range of focused DBT and CBT strategies that I also teach to younger clinicians who train with my practice. I have maintained a professional home for 30 years at Harvard Medical School where I serve as a Part-Time Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry.
I treat a range of diagnostic presentations and specialize in working with anger challenges, self-harming issues, learning/executive function challenges, and college transition issues.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who have often had unsuccessful prior treatment experiences. They feel that my knowledge and holistic approach to treatment will provide them with a healthier pathway forward in their life. Although I have a depth of experience to share with my patients I value learning from them on a daily basis. To facilitate change I employ a range of focused DBT and CBT strategies that I also teach to younger clinicians who train with my practice. I have maintained a professional home for 30 years at Harvard Medical School where I serve as a Part-Time Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry.
![Photo of Natalie Rita Noonan - The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/719af706-f1d0-446f-bdb4-e84d2b6bf1a2/1/320x400.png)
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity specializes in neuropsychological assessments and therapy for children, promoting well-being through individualized care. CFPN specializes in the assessment of Autism, ADHD, and other developmental/ learning concerns for kids ages 2-18. We pair traditional neuropsychological evaluation with on-site observation such as school, home, or other activities. We also rely on extensive communication with other people in your child’s life such as teachers, friends, and family, to enrich our understanding of your child in different contexts. Currently booking assessments in Oct/Nov 2024.
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity specializes in neuropsychological assessments and therapy for children, promoting well-being through individualized care. CFPN specializes in the assessment of Autism, ADHD, and other developmental/ learning concerns for kids ages 2-18. We pair traditional neuropsychological evaluation with on-site observation such as school, home, or other activities. We also rely on extensive communication with other people in your child’s life such as teachers, friends, and family, to enrich our understanding of your child in different contexts. Currently booking assessments in Oct/Nov 2024.
A child psychologist, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders i.e., Aspergers, NLD, Learning Disabilities, ASD, ADHD, and anxiety and divorce, I work with children individually, with parents, and in groups. I have many years of experience with young children ranging in age through mid 20's. I integrate a child's temperament, processing style, family dynamics, and developmental stage in guiding and supporting parents. In addition to focusing on life at home, I visit schools and consult around educational planning to support the child's growth and to offer the family an integrated approach.
A child psychologist, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders i.e., Aspergers, NLD, Learning Disabilities, ASD, ADHD, and anxiety and divorce, I work with children individually, with parents, and in groups. I have many years of experience with young children ranging in age through mid 20's. I integrate a child's temperament, processing style, family dynamics, and developmental stage in guiding and supporting parents. In addition to focusing on life at home, I visit schools and consult around educational planning to support the child's growth and to offer the family an integrated approach.
![Photo of Andrew S Brown - Career Ventures , MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e28d0c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
In practice for over 21 years, I have extensive experience in ADHD/ADD, Learning Disabilities, and Personality Development. I provide a "down to earth," private and confidential environment where clients feel comfortable identifying and solving problems that continually disrupt their lives. Specializing in ADHD/ADD and Learning Disabilities, initially client's display increased thoughts of underachievement, distractibility, feel unfocused, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, anger, and sometimes "just feel stuck". We develop structure, focus, and clarity enabling a better understanding of oneself, therefore progressing with the necessary tools and strategies to feel comfortable and productive in their lives.
In practice for over 21 years, I have extensive experience in ADHD/ADD, Learning Disabilities, and Personality Development. I provide a "down to earth," private and confidential environment where clients feel comfortable identifying and solving problems that continually disrupt their lives. Specializing in ADHD/ADD and Learning Disabilities, initially client's display increased thoughts of underachievement, distractibility, feel unfocused, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, anger, and sometimes "just feel stuck". We develop structure, focus, and clarity enabling a better understanding of oneself, therefore progressing with the necessary tools and strategies to feel comfortable and productive in their lives.
![Photo of Dominique A. Branco, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93de5cb9-64df-4099-b862-baa5858875e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am well versed in special education, social emotional learning, and educational policies.
As a Lifing Group (TLG) consultant, I guide adolescents and young adults to navigate academic & professional waters as they chart their course and broaden their horizons. I assist with organizational skill, motivation, building self-confidence, and accountability. Creating goal-oriented plans focused on their academic and career needs will lead clients towards achieving their goals with confidence to success.
I am well versed in special education, social emotional learning, and educational policies.
As a Lifing Group (TLG) consultant, I guide adolescents and young adults to navigate academic & professional waters as they chart their course and broaden their horizons. I assist with organizational skill, motivation, building self-confidence, and accountability. Creating goal-oriented plans focused on their academic and career needs will lead clients towards achieving their goals with confidence to success.
![Photo of Bryan Harnsberger - Wellesley Neuropsychology and Assessment PLLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31403a33-fccc-4db5-9947-636ae4acbfd6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellesley Neuropsychology and Assessment PLLC is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages better understand their own unique abilities and challenges. Our comprehensive, personalized testing focuses on giving you the tools and recommended accommodations to navigate your world more effectively and with greater confidence. Whether it's ADHD or learning disability evaluations, customized accommodations for academic success, or gaining an in-depth understanding of yourself from a neuropsychological perspective - our mission is to provide knowledge and insight that could be life-changing.
Wellesley Neuropsychology and Assessment PLLC is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages better understand their own unique abilities and challenges. Our comprehensive, personalized testing focuses on giving you the tools and recommended accommodations to navigate your world more effectively and with greater confidence. Whether it's ADHD or learning disability evaluations, customized accommodations for academic success, or gaining an in-depth understanding of yourself from a neuropsychological perspective - our mission is to provide knowledge and insight that could be life-changing.
![Photo of Sarah A Prevelige - SECM, LLC, PsyD, EdD, LEP, NCSP, ABSNP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1ffd9cd-9e38-49bc-99f7-e2f9f1463562/1/320x400.png)
Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Only at this time ............ SECM provides various assessments (psychological, neuropsychological, and educational) to help diagnose and identify learning, psychological and mental health concerns. We work with children 5 years and older, adolescents, as well as adults.
Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Only at this time ............ SECM provides various assessments (psychological, neuropsychological, and educational) to help diagnose and identify learning, psychological and mental health concerns. We work with children 5 years and older, adolescents, as well as adults.
![Photo of Laurie Cestnick, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f7410d3-68cb-4734-bef2-5d505c0a91df/1/320x400.jpeg)
15+ years evaluating, studying & treating developmental, learning, and brain-related concerns clinically and via neuroimaging research.
Here to help you with dyslexia, learning disorders, autism, ADHD, stroke, memory loss, concussion, & emotionality from these. Neuropsychological, psychological, & educational assessments & treatment. Internationally recognized for neuropsychology of reading, dyslexia and attention with the most comprehensive assessments available (clinical & research backgrounds bring a detailed approach); ages 3 to adult. Relationships with clients and their families are usually ongoing. I love helping you and give my best effort always. https://www.drlauriecestnick.com for FREE educational videos. 617-413-2065
15+ years evaluating, studying & treating developmental, learning, and brain-related concerns clinically and via neuroimaging research.
Here to help you with dyslexia, learning disorders, autism, ADHD, stroke, memory loss, concussion, & emotionality from these. Neuropsychological, psychological, & educational assessments & treatment. Internationally recognized for neuropsychology of reading, dyslexia and attention with the most comprehensive assessments available (clinical & research backgrounds bring a detailed approach); ages 3 to adult. Relationships with clients and their families are usually ongoing. I love helping you and give my best effort always. https://www.drlauriecestnick.com for FREE educational videos. 617-413-2065
![Photo of Amanda Bradshaw Educational Psychologist, CAGS, LEP, NCSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6018ccb6-4813-40c5-a3f7-9da5542a8f0b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide comprehensive psychological assessments to identify learning disabilities, cognitive strengths and weaknesses, emotional and behavioral concerns, and developmental issues.
As an educational psychologist, my primary goal is to provide support and guidance to individuals in their educational journey. I understand that each individual is unique, with their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.
I provide comprehensive psychological assessments to identify learning disabilities, cognitive strengths and weaknesses, emotional and behavioral concerns, and developmental issues.
As an educational psychologist, my primary goal is to provide support and guidance to individuals in their educational journey. I understand that each individual is unique, with their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.
![Photo of Judith B Sonner - Newton Biofeedback, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be775f9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I've been a practicing LICSW, for 28 years specializing in Life Coaching, Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Hypnosis, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for stress-related conditions, such as Migraines, Anxiety, Hypertension,Chronic pain, Weight loss, Insomnia and Tinnitus. Most people are unaware of ways in which our bodies react to thoughts and emotions.Your response to stress compromises your health and interferes with reaching personal goals.There is no need to suffer.
I can help you to stop using ineffective coping skills and begin learning successful skills to achieve your full potential in all aspects of your life: Family, career, finances, relationships, and health.
I've been a practicing LICSW, for 28 years specializing in Life Coaching, Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Hypnosis, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for stress-related conditions, such as Migraines, Anxiety, Hypertension,Chronic pain, Weight loss, Insomnia and Tinnitus. Most people are unaware of ways in which our bodies react to thoughts and emotions.Your response to stress compromises your health and interferes with reaching personal goals.There is no need to suffer.
I can help you to stop using ineffective coping skills and begin learning successful skills to achieve your full potential in all aspects of your life: Family, career, finances, relationships, and health.
![Photo of Michal Shapiro - Michal Shapiro, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa0ab685-260f-4cde-9aa8-6c686aa35e14/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide integrated, wrap-around MMT care for my clients and their caregivers, helping facilitate an understanding of the student’s combined learning and behavioral challenges.
I am a bilingual clinical social worker/therapist. My passion for working with children and adolescents stems from my years of experience with students in the Newton and Boston school systems. My understanding of the importance for social work has empowered me to continue advocating for and working with marginalized communities, diverse populations, and individuals with learning challenges. My goal as a Multi-Modality Treatment (MMT) clinician is to holistically address the wide range of contributing factors involved in my client’s treatment, including their home, school, and community relationships.
I provide integrated, wrap-around MMT care for my clients and their caregivers, helping facilitate an understanding of the student’s combined learning and behavioral challenges.
I am a bilingual clinical social worker/therapist. My passion for working with children and adolescents stems from my years of experience with students in the Newton and Boston school systems. My understanding of the importance for social work has empowered me to continue advocating for and working with marginalized communities, diverse populations, and individuals with learning challenges. My goal as a Multi-Modality Treatment (MMT) clinician is to holistically address the wide range of contributing factors involved in my client’s treatment, including their home, school, and community relationships.
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I have a strong understanding of Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD and related issues.
My clients range in age from preschool to young adulthood. My approach tends to be cognitive-behavioral and I actively invole the parents in the treatment and provide parental coaching/training when needed. I treat a variety of issues including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, School Adjustment/ Functioning including learning disabilities and I currently have several clients who fall within the Autism Spectrum. I am also a licensed school psychologist and I am able to help parents understand the special education and IEP process. I work closely with school personnel around eudcational programming.
I have a strong understanding of Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD and related issues.
My clients range in age from preschool to young adulthood. My approach tends to be cognitive-behavioral and I actively invole the parents in the treatment and provide parental coaching/training when needed. I treat a variety of issues including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, School Adjustment/ Functioning including learning disabilities and I currently have several clients who fall within the Autism Spectrum. I am also a licensed school psychologist and I am able to help parents understand the special education and IEP process. I work closely with school personnel around eudcational programming.
![Photo of Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, LICSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ce84352-6f02-4352-890b-33d0fff13a9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
![Photo of Deon Mowatt - Deon Mowatt, PsyD, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38e15c51-e482-4320-8164-8b6142b8b827/5/320x400.jpeg)
I've worked extensively with parents, coaching them to facilitate positive changes in their neurodiverse children and have treated children with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD, Autism, and learning disabilities.
With over six years of clinical experience, I specialize in serving diverse communities, including adults, children, and families. Holding a PsyD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from William James College, I've honed my skills at well-known Boston agencies, such as Commonwealth Mental Health and Wellness Center, Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center, and the Brenner Center. I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, allowing me to offer customized support to individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
I've worked extensively with parents, coaching them to facilitate positive changes in their neurodiverse children and have treated children with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD, Autism, and learning disabilities.
With over six years of clinical experience, I specialize in serving diverse communities, including adults, children, and families. Holding a PsyD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from William James College, I've honed my skills at well-known Boston agencies, such as Commonwealth Mental Health and Wellness Center, Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center, and the Brenner Center. I draw from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, allowing me to offer customized support to individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Suzanne Flax, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43db910d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Speech-Language Pathologist with a specialty in autism, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, apraxia and speech disorders.
I graduated from Columbia University with a Master's of Science in speech-language pathology and have 30+ years’ experience as an advocate/consultant for students with diverse special education needs. I have worked with multiple public school systems , private schools and BPS. I can review and interpret clinical evaluations and develop I.E.P./ 504 plans. I am available for observations and evaluation of current and proposed classroom/school placements, team meetings, BSEA mediation and hearing. I am E. I. Certified and trained through the Federation for Children with Special Needs Parent Consultant Instituteand Wrights Law in 2016 .
Speech-Language Pathologist with a specialty in autism, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, apraxia and speech disorders.
I graduated from Columbia University with a Master's of Science in speech-language pathology and have 30+ years’ experience as an advocate/consultant for students with diverse special education needs. I have worked with multiple public school systems , private schools and BPS. I can review and interpret clinical evaluations and develop I.E.P./ 504 plans. I am available for observations and evaluation of current and proposed classroom/school placements, team meetings, BSEA mediation and hearing. I am E. I. Certified and trained through the Federation for Children with Special Needs Parent Consultant Instituteand Wrights Law in 2016 .
![Photo of David Eckelkamp, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/990026de-c737-42b0-a383-a26e0e154f31/2/320x400.jpeg)
I listen with with empathy and reflect back my authentic response. I work best with people who are open to expanding their blind areas and their potential for growth in a supportive manner. Learning about the 'plumbing' of the nervous system can be helpful or finding a metaphor for change or discussing the latest science in psychology. I feel comfortable and confident with a wide range of issues and concerns. Over the years I have developed strong Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques for adults and complimentary expressive arts therapy techniques for youth.
I listen with with empathy and reflect back my authentic response. I work best with people who are open to expanding their blind areas and their potential for growth in a supportive manner. Learning about the 'plumbing' of the nervous system can be helpful or finding a metaphor for change or discussing the latest science in psychology. I feel comfortable and confident with a wide range of issues and concerns. Over the years I have developed strong Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques for adults and complimentary expressive arts therapy techniques for youth.
![Photo of Jessica Fradkin Gashin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b9c6909-9815-43d1-bea9-749bf35aa012/3/320x400.jpeg)
My practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological evaluation of children and adults (ages 0 and up). Testing can be helpful in determining someone's unique cognitive and emotional profile. Testing is often helpful in determining diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disorders, and Emotional or Behavioral Disorders. As part of the process, we work closely with educational and outpatient providers.
My practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological evaluation of children and adults (ages 0 and up). Testing can be helpful in determining someone's unique cognitive and emotional profile. Testing is often helpful in determining diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learning Disorders, and Emotional or Behavioral Disorders. As part of the process, we work closely with educational and outpatient providers.
![Photo of Julia E Volynskaya - ADHD New England Counseling and Consulting , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5e4eff-6592-447d-90fd-327a39925505/3/320x400.jpeg)
ADHD New England Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive and emotional challenges in children, teens, adults, couples, and seniors, utilizing a multi-disciplinary, solution-focused approach that incorporates the latest knowledge about the brain, learning, human behavior and emotion.
My clinical expertise are especially beneficial to those living with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, relationships and family conflict, as well as those struggling with life transitions, stress management, and self-esteem. It is our mission to work holistically with individuals and families using a strategic and strengths-based approach to help our clients be an “open book” throughout the therapeutic process. We help to maximize existing coping strategies while developing new pathways for increasing competency, functioning, and self esteem. We believe that everyone can be successful and have a better quality of life.
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive and emotional challenges in children, teens, adults, couples, and seniors, utilizing a multi-disciplinary, solution-focused approach that incorporates the latest knowledge about the brain, learning, human behavior and emotion.
My clinical expertise are especially beneficial to those living with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, relationships and family conflict, as well as those struggling with life transitions, stress management, and self-esteem. It is our mission to work holistically with individuals and families using a strategic and strengths-based approach to help our clients be an “open book” throughout the therapeutic process. We help to maximize existing coping strategies while developing new pathways for increasing competency, functioning, and self esteem. We believe that everyone can be successful and have a better quality of life.
![Photo of Jim Brightman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fc001fe-67bb-4ea3-a4ac-ba4672c987b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who works primarily with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety, depression, adjustment, emotional regulation, ASD, ADHD, processing and learning differences. I am currently taking new clients for individual or family therapy at my Newton practice. Additional services can be found on my website such as advocacy, consulting, school meetings and coaching. These services are self-pay but insurance can often be used for standard outpatient. I offer a free phone consultation for options and what best meets needs.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who works primarily with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety, depression, adjustment, emotional regulation, ASD, ADHD, processing and learning differences. I am currently taking new clients for individual or family therapy at my Newton practice. Additional services can be found on my website such as advocacy, consulting, school meetings and coaching. These services are self-pay but insurance can often be used for standard outpatient. I offer a free phone consultation for options and what best meets needs.
![Photo of Barbara Weinberg, MEd, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7a6552-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and adults for over 25 years. I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches in order to target your child's and your family's unique set of needs. Depending on your child's age and challenges, my approach blends components of developmental psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems and neuropsychology. I specialize in helping children learn strategies for managing anxiety, emotional regulation, depression, learning/developmental disabilities, Autism, and ADHD, to name a few.
I am a clinical psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and adults for over 25 years. I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches in order to target your child's and your family's unique set of needs. Depending on your child's age and challenges, my approach blends components of developmental psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, family systems and neuropsychology. I specialize in helping children learn strategies for managing anxiety, emotional regulation, depression, learning/developmental disabilities, Autism, and ADHD, to name a few.
See more therapy options for Newton
Nearby Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists Searches for Newton
- Belmont
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Chestnut Hill
- Needham
- Newton Centre
- Waltham
- Watertown
- Wellesley
- Wellesley Hills
- West Roxbury
- Weston
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.