Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in West Chester, PA

Photo of Meredith L Petruccelli, PhD, NCSP, LP, Psychologist
Meredith L Petruccelli
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, LP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
I specialize in learning disabilities, attention disorders, developmental disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, emotional/behavioral disorders, and giftedness.
Children, adolescents, young adults, and their families may require psychoeducational evaluation for many different reasons. Is your child struggling in school and you're wondering why? Does your child require testing for private school admission? Does your adolescent or young adult require an evaluation for accommodations on SAT, ACT, GRE, or other standardized testing? My goal with every client is to develop a full and complex profile of strengths and weaknesses through psychoeducational evaluation so that their families and schools may provide them with the support and enrichment that they need to meet their potential.
I specialize in learning disabilities, attention disorders, developmental disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, emotional/behavioral disorders, and giftedness.
Children, adolescents, young adults, and their families may require psychoeducational evaluation for many different reasons. Is your child struggling in school and you're wondering why? Does your child require testing for private school admission? Does your adolescent or young adult require an evaluation for accommodations on SAT, ACT, GRE, or other standardized testing? My goal with every client is to develop a full and complex profile of strengths and weaknesses through psychoeducational evaluation so that their families and schools may provide them with the support and enrichment that they need to meet their potential.
(267) 647-1663 View (267) 647-1663
Photo of Phoebe E McElhenny, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phoebe E McElhenny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Among my specialties are: Attachment issues, Relational issues including marriage counseling, or post divorce counseling; children's issues: developmental or learning issues, Aspergers, confidence-building, coping and social skill building.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
Among my specialties are: Attachment issues, Relational issues including marriage counseling, or post divorce counseling; children's issues: developmental or learning issues, Aspergers, confidence-building, coping and social skill building.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
(484) 313-4146 View (484) 313-4146
Photo of Phoebe E McElhenny - TriCounty Counseling, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
TriCounty Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Among my specialties are: Attachment issues, Relational issues including marriage counseling, or post divorce counseling; children's issues: developmental or learning issues, Aspergers, confidence-building, coping and social skill building.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
Among my specialties are: Attachment issues, Relational issues including marriage counseling, or post divorce counseling; children's issues: developmental or learning issues, Aspergers, confidence-building, coping and social skill building.
Thank you for considering my professional counseling services. No matter what has brought you here today, you have just taken your first step toward a successful change in your life. If you are suffering from a divorce, illness or loss, depression, anxiety, ADD, developmental issues, anger, or a disruption or transition in your life or your child's life; allow me to help you. As a therapist, I will utilize a warm, confidential, non-judgemental approach to assisting you with your issue. I enjoy helping children, adolescents and adults understand and cope with their issues. Together, we find solutions so you can meet your goals.
(484) 271-6738 View (484) 271-6738
Photo of Julie E Keaveney, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Julie E Keaveney
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
CURRENTLY ONLY ACCEPTING TESTING CLIENTS, NO THERAPY CASES. I specialize in providing comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations of adolescents/adults throughout the lifespan with dementia, brain injury, learning disabilities, ADHD, and psychiatric disorders affecting cognitive functioning and wellness. I provide diagnostic evaluations for veterans through the VA, Independent Medical Evaluations for disability insurance companies, and guardianship evaluations for the courts. I evaluate clients in personal injury lawsuits and testify.I am board certified in clinical neuropsychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology.
CURRENTLY ONLY ACCEPTING TESTING CLIENTS, NO THERAPY CASES. I specialize in providing comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations of adolescents/adults throughout the lifespan with dementia, brain injury, learning disabilities, ADHD, and psychiatric disorders affecting cognitive functioning and wellness. I provide diagnostic evaluations for veterans through the VA, Independent Medical Evaluations for disability insurance companies, and guardianship evaluations for the courts. I evaluate clients in personal injury lawsuits and testify.I am board certified in clinical neuropsychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology.
(610) 810-1056 View (610) 810-1056
Photo of Reggie Candio - PsychoEd Specialist, MS, EdS, NCSP, PsyD
PsychoEd Specialist
MS, EdS, NCSP, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19381
As a psychological professional and educational specialist, my role is unique in that I apply my expertise in mental health counseling, education and vocational support to identify and address the individualized learning, behavioral, social-emotional and occupational strengths and needs of the individuals I serve. Over my years of professional practice, I've found that true potential can be unlocked and realized through compassion, strong collaboration, effective guidance and thoughtful intervention
As a psychological professional and educational specialist, my role is unique in that I apply my expertise in mental health counseling, education and vocational support to identify and address the individualized learning, behavioral, social-emotional and occupational strengths and needs of the individuals I serve. Over my years of professional practice, I've found that true potential can be unlocked and realized through compassion, strong collaboration, effective guidance and thoughtful intervention
(484) 232-5055 View (484) 232-5055
Photo of William Morgan, PsyD, Psychologist
William Morgan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
(610) 644-8182 View (610) 644-8182
Photo of Stephen J Seger, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephen J Seger
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
I specialize in providing therapy for children, teens, and young adults who are struggling with school, relationships, and life transitions. During the crucial early years of life it is important that children and teens are given the right support to deal with difficulties impacting their school performance, mood, and communication with parents. I believe that a combination of skills-based learning for children, adolescents and teens in addition to guidance and support for parents is critical in helping young people overcome challenges and get back to feeling like themselves.
I specialize in providing therapy for children, teens, and young adults who are struggling with school, relationships, and life transitions. During the crucial early years of life it is important that children and teens are given the right support to deal with difficulties impacting their school performance, mood, and communication with parents. I believe that a combination of skills-based learning for children, adolescents and teens in addition to guidance and support for parents is critical in helping young people overcome challenges and get back to feeling like themselves.
(484) 229-5259 View (484) 229-5259
Photo of Kyle Gerard Slough - At Ease Therapy, LMHC, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
At Ease Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Waitlist for new clients
We will focus on identifying your goals and developing a plan to meet them while learning the coping skills that will keep you on track.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? I can help you sort through the issues causing your stress so you can have a calmer frame of mind. My mission is to enable you to find balance and peace in your life. I provide my clients the tools they need to overcome challenges with their careers, relationships and the transition from military to civilian life. I also have training working with people who have issues with attention difficulties and alcohol/substance use.
We will focus on identifying your goals and developing a plan to meet them while learning the coping skills that will keep you on track.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? I can help you sort through the issues causing your stress so you can have a calmer frame of mind. My mission is to enable you to find balance and peace in your life. I provide my clients the tools they need to overcome challenges with their careers, relationships and the transition from military to civilian life. I also have training working with people who have issues with attention difficulties and alcohol/substance use.
(215) 600-4825 View (215) 600-4825
Photo of Erin Adamitis, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin Adamitis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
depression and anxiety), developmental disorders and related symptoms (feeding disorders, sleep problems, toilet training), cognitive and learning impairments, disruptive behavioral problems, social difficulties, parent coaching, and family relationship issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
depression and anxiety), developmental disorders and related symptoms (feeding disorders, sleep problems, toilet training), cognitive and learning impairments, disruptive behavioral problems, social difficulties, parent coaching, and family relationship issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
(484) 696-2291 View (484) 696-2291
Photo of Rachelle Cavicchia, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachelle Cavicchia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
autism, adhd, learning disabilities).
My name is Rachelle Cavicchia and I have 10+ years therapeutic experience counseling adolescents and adults via group, family, couples and individual therapy. I have a passion for working with clients, helping them become more empowered to enable their self-change. It’s a great feeling to truly know you’re not a victim of your circumstances. Though change is hard, it is possible.
autism, adhd, learning disabilities).
My name is Rachelle Cavicchia and I have 10+ years therapeutic experience counseling adolescents and adults via group, family, couples and individual therapy. I have a passion for working with clients, helping them become more empowered to enable their self-change. It’s a great feeling to truly know you’re not a victim of your circumstances. Though change is hard, it is possible.
(610) 890-9207 View (610) 890-9207
Photo of M L Corbin Sicoli, PhD, Psychologist
M L Corbin Sicoli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
I focus on psychoeducational evaluations of students of all ages,pre-schhol through graduate school, who are having difficulties with educational achievement,i.e.ADHD,LD,ED.I help students to understand the reasons for these difficulties and formulate a plan to help them succeed in an academic environment. These evaluations may also be for those seeking accomodations for nationally standardized tests, such as the SAT, GRE, LSAT,MCAT,etc.Evaluations include intelligence,achievement,personality and career testing.In addition, I do testing for students who seek to qualify for inclusion into school district programs for the gifted and for MENSA.
I focus on psychoeducational evaluations of students of all ages,pre-schhol through graduate school, who are having difficulties with educational achievement,i.e.ADHD,LD,ED.I help students to understand the reasons for these difficulties and formulate a plan to help them succeed in an academic environment. These evaluations may also be for those seeking accomodations for nationally standardized tests, such as the SAT, GRE, LSAT,MCAT,etc.Evaluations include intelligence,achievement,personality and career testing.In addition, I do testing for students who seek to qualify for inclusion into school district programs for the gifted and for MENSA.
(610) 915-8438 View (610) 915-8438
Photo of Bill Reichle, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bill Reichle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, MSEd
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
Hello there! My name is Bill and I hold a Master's degree in School & Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. I also completed my undergraduate coursework in Family & Human Services from the University of Oregon, and earned another Master's degree in Special Education from Penn State. I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and Delaware and have been certified as a National Counselor by the NBCC. With my extensive experience, I specialize in working with children, young adults, and parents.
Hello there! My name is Bill and I hold a Master's degree in School & Mental Health Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. I also completed my undergraduate coursework in Family & Human Services from the University of Oregon, and earned another Master's degree in Special Education from Penn State. I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and Delaware and have been certified as a National Counselor by the NBCC. With my extensive experience, I specialize in working with children, young adults, and parents.
(610) 890-7951 View (610) 890-7951
Photo of Heather Jacoby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Jacoby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Equestrian, Yoga Teacher, Student of Life... I am curious, interested, hungry for more...I am tattooed, spry, witty...I say these things not to brag about myself, but to simple put out the intention behind Pathways to Peace. I am not defined by a single aspect, of my life and neither are you! That being said, considering we are all unique beings with our individual needs, qualities and experiences, how is it reasonable to expect one to follow one path of healing, typically traditional psychotherapy and/or medication management?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Equestrian, Yoga Teacher, Student of Life... I am curious, interested, hungry for more...I am tattooed, spry, witty...I say these things not to brag about myself, but to simple put out the intention behind Pathways to Peace. I am not defined by a single aspect, of my life and neither are you! That being said, considering we are all unique beings with our individual needs, qualities and experiences, how is it reasonable to expect one to follow one path of healing, typically traditional psychotherapy and/or medication management?
(610) 624-2070 View (610) 624-2070
Photo of Evan Schullery, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evan Schullery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380  (Online Only)
Are you a struggling student? Is your anxiety keeping you from performing at your best? Are you feeling so down that you don't want to go to school or leave your bed? You deserve to feel better and I'm here to help. Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I have a Masters degree from West Chester University and over twenty years experience providing school-based mental health services. I currently work as a counselor for students with special needs, so I am well aware of the various challenges and issues facing young people today.
Are you a struggling student? Is your anxiety keeping you from performing at your best? Are you feeling so down that you don't want to go to school or leave your bed? You deserve to feel better and I'm here to help. Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. I have a Masters degree from West Chester University and over twenty years experience providing school-based mental health services. I currently work as a counselor for students with special needs, so I am well aware of the various challenges and issues facing young people today.
(484) 517-3080 View (484) 517-3080
Photo of Carly Elizabeth Doucette, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carly Elizabeth Doucette
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
As a therapist, my goal is to build authentically warm relationships with my clients to help them face a range of difficulties stemming from anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and trauma. I work with children, teens, and young adults to deeply understand their struggles, find their own strength, and work through the emotions, behaviors, and thoughts that keep them feeling stuck or helpless. Together, we develop goals and treatment plans suited to your (or your child's) individual needs.
As a therapist, my goal is to build authentically warm relationships with my clients to help them face a range of difficulties stemming from anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and trauma. I work with children, teens, and young adults to deeply understand their struggles, find their own strength, and work through the emotions, behaviors, and thoughts that keep them feeling stuck or helpless. Together, we develop goals and treatment plans suited to your (or your child's) individual needs.
(484) 537-7643 View (484) 537-7643
Photo of Kate Bowden, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Bowden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
As a Licensed Social Worker my goal is to empower individuals and promote human potential. My experience includes working with dually-diagnosed children and adolescents, many of whom are navigating life transitions, behavioral challenges and emotional distress; as well as adults who are feeling challenged by life’s hurdles. I am a strong advocate for individual empowerment, but also look to how we can grow through our eco-systemic support systems. I enjoy working with families, and often find that through focusing on the relational dynamics people can increase connection and find the support they need to feel emotionally empowered.
As a Licensed Social Worker my goal is to empower individuals and promote human potential. My experience includes working with dually-diagnosed children and adolescents, many of whom are navigating life transitions, behavioral challenges and emotional distress; as well as adults who are feeling challenged by life’s hurdles. I am a strong advocate for individual empowerment, but also look to how we can grow through our eco-systemic support systems. I enjoy working with families, and often find that through focusing on the relational dynamics people can increase connection and find the support they need to feel emotionally empowered.
(267) 727-2844 View (267) 727-2844
Photo of Vincent Bellwoar - Springfield Psychological of West Chester, Psychologist
Springfield Psychological of West Chester
Psychologist
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
We are a friendly and professional mental health practice that has been providing outstanding and affordable therapy for adults, couples, families, teens and children since 1985. With seven locations in Havertown, King of Prussia, North Wales, Philadelphia, Sinking Spring, Springfield, and West Chester as well as flexible scheduling options, we are able to offer appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekends for your convenience. In addition, we accept most insurance plans.
We are a friendly and professional mental health practice that has been providing outstanding and affordable therapy for adults, couples, families, teens and children since 1985. With seven locations in Havertown, King of Prussia, North Wales, Philadelphia, Sinking Spring, Springfield, and West Chester as well as flexible scheduling options, we are able to offer appointments during the daytime, evening, and weekends for your convenience. In addition, we accept most insurance plans.
(610) 364-5156 View (610) 364-5156
Photo of Michele Tassoni Shane, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michele Tassoni Shane
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
Human connection is important to me, and I believe that strengthening our support system often begins with our families, those we are born with and those we choose. ​ I work with adolescents and adults, and through a person-centered approach, I strive to help empower clients to tap into their full potential. I specialize in couples counseling and am trained in the Gottman method, which focuses on a couple's deep friendship as the basis for a lasting relationship.
Human connection is important to me, and I believe that strengthening our support system often begins with our families, those we are born with and those we choose. ​ I work with adolescents and adults, and through a person-centered approach, I strive to help empower clients to tap into their full potential. I specialize in couples counseling and am trained in the Gottman method, which focuses on a couple's deep friendship as the basis for a lasting relationship.
(484) 563-8745 View (484) 563-8745
Photo of Child And Young Adult Therapist Andi Peters, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Child And Young Adult Therapist Andi Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
I enjoy empowering young people to pursue peace and healing within themselves, become aware of patterns that have been holding them back, & become confident in their own abilities. I believe we all experience our own unique set of circumstances that subconsciously affect our emotional well-being, our relationships, how we see ourselves, and our interactions in the world. I use a holistic approach in therapy, which means, I look at all aspects of your internal and external environment to help you gain understanding, and discover your best self to begin healing.
I enjoy empowering young people to pursue peace and healing within themselves, become aware of patterns that have been holding them back, & become confident in their own abilities. I believe we all experience our own unique set of circumstances that subconsciously affect our emotional well-being, our relationships, how we see ourselves, and our interactions in the world. I use a holistic approach in therapy, which means, I look at all aspects of your internal and external environment to help you gain understanding, and discover your best self to begin healing.
(215) 608-5374 View (215) 608-5374
Photo of Drew Alikakos - Addiction & Psychological Therapy, Inc., MS, Psychologist
Addiction & Psychological Therapy, Inc.
Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382
My ideal client is motivated. I have been a licensed psychologist for 19 years. I graduated from Villanova University and worked as a cognitive therapist at the University of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania Hospital before opening my own group practice, Addiction & Psychological Therapy. The group specializes in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive thinking, OCD, ADHD, depression, marital and family counseling, alcoholism and crisis clients, treating children, adolescents and adults. I also have a forensic program treating Anger Management and DUI's. We offer ARD & IPP Evaluations, Anger Management Evaluations, Drug and Alcohol Assessments and Mental Heath Evaluations, and Suboxin treatment.
My ideal client is motivated. I have been a licensed psychologist for 19 years. I graduated from Villanova University and worked as a cognitive therapist at the University of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania Hospital before opening my own group practice, Addiction & Psychological Therapy. The group specializes in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive thinking, OCD, ADHD, depression, marital and family counseling, alcoholism and crisis clients, treating children, adolescents and adults. I also have a forensic program treating Anger Management and DUI's. We offer ARD & IPP Evaluations, Anger Management Evaluations, Drug and Alcohol Assessments and Mental Heath Evaluations, and Suboxin treatment.
(484) 334-2833 View (484) 334-2833
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Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists

How effective is treatment for learning disabilities?

When initiated early and tailored to a child’s specific needs, learning disability treatment can be quite effective at helping a child cope with their disability, though its exact efficacy may depend on the severity of symptoms and whether comorbid disorders exist. Less is known about treatment initiated in adulthood, but it is certainly possible that an adult with a learning disability will see some improvement—or at the very least, identify workarounds and accommodations that could make symptoms less burdensome in day-to-day life.

When should someone seek treatment for learning disabilities?

It’s best to seek treatment as early as possible. Because learning disabilities often go unnoticed until a child starts school, or even until they’re a few years along, regular check-ins with teachers and doctors can help parents determine whether children are meeting milestones and keeping up with peers or whether an evaluation for learning disabilities may be warranted. And although earlier is always better, it’s never too late to be evaluated for learning disabilities and to seek treatment.

What happens if learning disabilities are left untreated?

Undiagnosed and untreated learning disabilities can be a source of significant frustration and shame for a child, who may feel that their challenges stem from a lack of intelligence or willpower. Such feelings can trigger low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety, which may push a child toward risky behaviors, including substance use. In adulthood, untreated learning disabilities can interfere with career success, and lingering feelings of self-doubt and shame can negatively affect someone’s mental health.

Are there medications for learning disabilities?

Currently, there are no medications designed to treat specific learning disabilities such as dysgraphia or dyscalculia. However, someone with a learning disability may be prescribed medication for a comorbid condition, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which may have positive downstream effects on their learning disability; for example, a child with both ADHD and dyslexia may find that they’re better able to focus on their reading exercises after being prescribed a stimulant medication.