Learning Disorders

Learning disabilities, or learning disorders, are umbrella terms for a wide variety of learning problems. Learning disorders look very different from one person to the next – some may struggle with reading and spelling, while others have a hard time with math. A learning disability is not a problem with intelligence or motivation – it is something that people are born with. A child diagnosed with a learning disability is not stupid or lazy. Even though we now know how to mitigate the effects of most learning disorders with specific, targeted approaches to learning, they can be frustrating for children. Children with a learning disability may have difficulty in the classroom and outside of it and sometimes have trouble expressing their feelings, making friends, calming themselves down, or reading nonverbal cues. A qualified mental health professional can help. If you, a child in your care, or a family member has been diagnosed with a learning disability, reach out to one of TherapyDen’s experts today.

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I'm a licensed & certified school psychologist who worked in the school system for years doing educational testing, counseling, & crisis response before I decided to branch off on my own & open a private practice. My experience in the schools gives me a unique perspective as a private practice owner; I now have much more time to spend with my clients (finally!), but I also have the knowledge of the ins, outs, strengths, & weaknesses of the psychological services available in our education system

— Farah Downs, Educational Psychologist in Maitland, FL

With specialized training in neuropsychological testing, I offer comprehensive evaluations to identify potential learning challenges such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. Through a comprehensive assessment process, including standardized testing and clinical observation, I provide personalized recommendations to support children in overcoming academic barriers and maximizing their learning potential.

— Dr. Kristin Edwards, Psychologist in Tampa, FL
 

Parents are often worried when their child has learning problems in school. There are many reasons for school failure, but a common one is a learning disability. The evaluation involves a comprehensive assessment of your child’s cognitive abilities and academic development. I will then make recommendations on appropriate school placement, the need for special help such as special educational services (IEP/504), and help you assist your child in maximizing his or her learning potential.

— Dr. Kristin Edwards, Psychologist in Tampa, FL

I have a background in LD/ADHD assessments and neuropsychology. Prior to becoming a Clinical Psychologist, I obtained a Master's in Learning Disabilities from one of the top institutions in the field, Northwestern University. I can help you interpret your testing results, understand how they impact your day-to-day functioning, and teach you to advocate for yourself or your child whether at school or in the workplace. Being neurodivergent doesn't mean there is something "wrong".

— Lori Bolnick, Clinical Psychologist in Schaumburg, IL

As a parent of a child with multiple learning disabilities I had to learn how to navigate the IEP process, be an advocate, how to interpret test results, monitor progress toward goals, learn about evidence based interventions and much more. Children who feel like failures at school can become very anxious and depressed. Very bright children can also have learning disabilities that go unrecognized and they may be viewed as not trying hard enough.

— Jennifer Van Loy, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 

Learning disorders can feel overwhelming, and it can feel like you are always trying to fight to act and think like everyone else, it can feel stressful when others are pushing you to fit in. We can work together to help you find your strengths, identify the stress and struggles, and create goals to help you connect and grow as the person you are meant to be.

— Kelsey Darmochwal, Counselor in Fort Wayne, IN

People with learning disorders such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and executive functioning issues often have gifts on the flip side that are buried deep within after years of being told they "aren't trying hard enough." Over time they begin to fuse with the thought that they are stupid when in fact many are highly intelligent. I offer parent coaching and support to help children with learning disorders reach their fullest potential. I provide advocacy, support and therapy to help address deficits and build on strengths to improve overall sense of competence and self esteem. I also refer to local community resources and specialists (occupational/speech therapy, developmental optometrists, educational specialists) as needed.

— Rachelle Miller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Spokane Valley, WA
 

I have specific experience supporting adolescents and young adults who experience learning disorders as well as supporting parents and caregivers who have children with learning disorders. My first masters is in special education and I spent many years in New York City schools working with children and youth who experience learning disorders and other neuro-diverse experiences.

— Alia Roth, Psychotherapist in New York, NY

I specialize in dyslexia and verbal and non-verbal learning disabilities. I approach learning disabilities from a non-medical model lens where they are primarily viewed as adaptations in response to trauma, ableism, shame, and a rigid neurotypical system.

— Peter Linden, Clinical Social Worker in Montclair, NJ
 

Adolescents with learning disabilities can find school much harder to manage - assignments and tasks takes longer, be more challenging, and potentially be more frustrating. In addition to addressing emotions tied to learning, I also work with adolescents to strengthen their self-advocacy so they can effectively ask for help. I also provide school consultations and observations - collaborating with a school team can have positive impact on academic success and social-emotional wellbeing.

— Tsuilei Mace, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA

Learning Disorders can have far more impacts than just in the classroom. They often have wide-ranging effects and can even change the things we do regardless of what we want. In therapy, we cah explore these effects and look at how you want to work past these barriers.

— Guy Smith, Counselor in Fitchburg, WI
 

I assess for learning disorders in math, reading, and writing.

— Jaime Long, Psychologist in Chicago, IL

I am a practicing School Psychologist who has worked in the Elementary (K-6) and High School (9-12) levels. I work closely with General Education and Special Education teachers to help design intervention and instructional approaches for student success. Furthermore, I emphasize finding collaborative solutions that provide meaningful (positive) impacts on students' lives.

— Jarrett Clifton, Educational Psychologist in El Cajon, CA