Specific Learning Disorder

Reading, writing, and/or mathematics

    • Reading single words aloud incorrectly

    • Slow and hesitant reading

    • Frequently guesses words

    • Struggles to sound out words

    • May read text accurately but fails to understand the concept or meaning of what is read

    • Poor spelling

    • Frequent grammatical errors within sentences

    • Incorrectly punctuates sentences

    • Written passages are unclear

    • Written passages are poorly organized

    • Difficulty mastering number sense

    • Counts on fingers to add single-digit numbers instead of recalling the math fact

    • Struggles to learn and recall math facts

    • Gets lost in the midst of performing an arithmetic calculation and may switch procedures

    • Applies the incorrect arithmetic procedure to the math problem

    • Difficulty applying mathematical concepts, facts, or procedures to solve problems

Specific Learning Disorders are differences in an individual’s brain that impact how they process information. These impact a person’s ability to read, write, and/or perform mathematics.

Specific Learning Disorders are not related to a person’s intelligence.

There are many treatments available that may help with learning to read, write, speak, and perform math calculations at or above the level expected for their age.

What is a Specific Learning Disorder?

Specific Learning Disorder significantly impacts academic performance and can impact other areas of life when untreated, such as difficulty managing finances, poor job performance, low self-esteem, and social problems. Many people with Specific Learning Disorder dislike and avoid school and may not meet their full academic potential if not provided appropriate treatment and resources. Testing for Specific Learning Disorder can help connect individuals to helpful resources, school supports, and academic training programs, as well as foster self-compassion and increasing social connection. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, many individuals with Specific Learning Disorder learn to read, write, and calculate just as well, or even better, than their peers!

Formal Specific Learning Disorder testing is necessary to provide accurate diagnoses, rule-out other possible mental health concerns that could be present, and can provide useful recommendations and resources to help a person learn.

Why test for a Specific Learning Disorder?

What does Specific Learning Disorder testing involve?

  • Review of Specific Learning Disorder symptoms

  • Review of other possible symptoms of mental health concerns

  • Comprehensive psychological, physical, social, academic, and occupational history

  • Discussion of client’s goals for testing

Clinical Intake

  • Completion of comprehensive assessment of academic and learning abilities

  • Assessment of cognitive functioning across domains

  • Self- and other- report measures of Specific Learning Disorder and other psychological symptoms

  • Broadband assessment of personality and emotional functioning

  • Other assessments specifically chosen for the client based on their unique presenting concerns & goals

Testing Appointment

  • Thorough written testing report with recommendations and referrals provided

  • Review results of the testing

  • Diagnoses are provided and explained

  • Explore recommendations for treatment

  • Review any referrals that may be provided

  • Process the results and ask any questions

Feedback Session