Photo of Barry Shear, Psychologist in Valparaiso, IN
Barry Shear
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46385
A lifetime of experience with executive functioning, learning disabilities and ADHD provides a strong foundation to understand and treat unique individuals who are struggling in school, work and home relationships.
Evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of neurodivergent, unique learners of all ages who have been struggling and suffering in interpersonal relationships, in the workplace, in schooling and at home. The greatest needs are to explore and develop alternative methods to learn more effectively, develop competence and confidence and experience greater success. Typical problems might include executive functioning, learning disabilities and attention deficit disorder which may occur by themselves or in combination.
A lifetime of experience with executive functioning, learning disabilities and ADHD provides a strong foundation to understand and treat unique individuals who are struggling in school, work and home relationships.
Evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of neurodivergent, unique learners of all ages who have been struggling and suffering in interpersonal relationships, in the workplace, in schooling and at home. The greatest needs are to explore and develop alternative methods to learn more effectively, develop competence and confidence and experience greater success. Typical problems might include executive functioning, learning disabilities and attention deficit disorder which may occur by themselves or in combination.
(219) 898-4652 View (219) 898-4652
Photo of Diane K Olson-Burkhardt, Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Diane K Olson-Burkhardt
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Waitlist for new clients
I love supervising others interested in learning/specializing in Play Therapy.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
I love supervising others interested in learning/specializing in Play Therapy.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
(219) 224-3421 View (219) 224-3421
Photo of Life Strategies, LLC, Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Life Strategies, LLC
Counselor, BCBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Through effective therapeutic strategies, common topics for traditional therapy include family guidance, child developmental & emotional concerns, classroom & peer concerns, social skill development, communication issues, sibling relationship improvement, learning difficulties, adult & child anxiety, depression, anger-outbursts, ADHD, among other topics.
At Life Strategies, we understand that the happiness and well-being of your child and family are extremely important to you, and we are passionate about assisting you in the growth process. We provide autism ABA Therapy & offer more traditional office counseling services for children, couples, & adults. Our ABA team has extensive experience in providing both in-home and in-center ABA, one of the most effective treatment options for children with autism. Through years of experience, in a caring and supportive environment, we help families and children make lasting gains.
Through effective therapeutic strategies, common topics for traditional therapy include family guidance, child developmental & emotional concerns, classroom & peer concerns, social skill development, communication issues, sibling relationship improvement, learning difficulties, adult & child anxiety, depression, anger-outbursts, ADHD, among other topics.
At Life Strategies, we understand that the happiness and well-being of your child and family are extremely important to you, and we are passionate about assisting you in the growth process. We provide autism ABA Therapy & offer more traditional office counseling services for children, couples, & adults. Our ABA team has extensive experience in providing both in-home and in-center ABA, one of the most effective treatment options for children with autism. Through years of experience, in a caring and supportive environment, we help families and children make lasting gains.
(219) 228-8715 View (219) 228-8715
Photo of Dr. Shaun Wehle in Valparaiso, IN
Dr. Shaun Wehle
PsyD, HSPP, LCAC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
(219) 258-3666 View (219) 258-3666
Photo of LPA Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valparaiso, IN
LPA Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
We are a family oriented group practice comprised of several therapists with a variety of specialties, we offer in office, video and phone therapy sessions. We have therapists licensed in the following states: Indiana, Michigan, and Utah. We work with children, teens, adults and elderly adults in individual, couples, and family counseling. We work with substance abuse, trauma, grief, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dealing with everyday issues and stress.
We are a family oriented group practice comprised of several therapists with a variety of specialties, we offer in office, video and phone therapy sessions. We have therapists licensed in the following states: Indiana, Michigan, and Utah. We work with children, teens, adults and elderly adults in individual, couples, and family counseling. We work with substance abuse, trauma, grief, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dealing with everyday issues and stress.
(219) 230-3681 View (219) 230-3681
Rebecca J Whited
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
(219) 961-3973 View (219) 961-3973
Photo of Lawrence Pincus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valparaiso, IN
Lawrence Pincus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
(219) 359-4287 View (219) 359-4287
Photo of Pillars of Wellness Inc in Valparaiso, IN
Pillars of Wellness Inc
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
(219) 641-3819 View (219) 641-3819
Photo of Patrick O'Connell, Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Patrick O'Connell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
(219) 544-5163 View (219) 544-5163

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Acquinnetta Doughty, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Acquinnetta Doughty
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAC, TH, MPA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterton, IN 46304
Providing counseling for individuals, families and pregnant addicted women for over 20 years. Possess strong assessment skill in evaluating at -risk adolescent substance abusers. Linking services to juvenile and adult courts. My approach supports a drug free lifestyle. Specialty includes trauma informed intervention; and using the Matrix Model. I provide IOP, GOP, PHP and DUI interventions.
Providing counseling for individuals, families and pregnant addicted women for over 20 years. Possess strong assessment skill in evaluating at -risk adolescent substance abusers. Linking services to juvenile and adult courts. My approach supports a drug free lifestyle. Specialty includes trauma informed intervention; and using the Matrix Model. I provide IOP, GOP, PHP and DUI interventions.
(219) 401-5852 View (219) 401-5852
Photo of Helping Hands Family Services Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valparaiso, IN
Helping Hands Family Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Hobart, IN 46342
Our Mission is to provide a wide range of social services that deliver information, resources, and opportunities to those who face challenges in life. Our expertise includes individual, family, and group therapy, as well as case management and other psychosocial assistance that promotes personal, interpersonal, and social functioning. Here, we are passionate about mental health and remain dedicated to serving individuals, families, and the community in nurturing safe, healthy, and long-term relationships.
Our Mission is to provide a wide range of social services that deliver information, resources, and opportunities to those who face challenges in life. Our expertise includes individual, family, and group therapy, as well as case management and other psychosocial assistance that promotes personal, interpersonal, and social functioning. Here, we are passionate about mental health and remain dedicated to serving individuals, families, and the community in nurturing safe, healthy, and long-term relationships.
(219) 244-5511 View (219) 244-5511

Online Therapists

Photo of Children's Advocate LLC in Valparaiso, IN
Children's Advocate LLC
Bcba
Verified Verified
Crown Point, IN 46307
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
In order to achieve their full potential, children with autism need people who understand their motivation and can break down goals into manageable tasks, which can be a form of errorless learning.
Children's Advocate ABA techniques can be used to teach a variety of skills and positive behaviors including: Communication, Positive peer interactions, self-help skills, academics, fine and gross motor skills, play and leisure skills, life skills, any many other skills. Children's Advocate uses an individualized approach to best meet your needs and lifestyle. If you're struggling with negative behaviors and emotions that are preventing you from reaching your potential, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Children's Advocate Licensed Professionals!
(708) 265-3350 View (708) 265-3350
Photo of Ericka Swanson, Psychologist in Valparaiso, IN
Ericka Swanson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munster, IN 46321  (Online Only)
Therapy Services Family/couples therapy Adult psychotherapy Adolescent psychotherapy (Ages 13-17) Trauma therapy Child Trauma psychotherapy (Ages 3-12) Parenting consultations Social skills training Psychological Testing Cognitive and Achievement Assessments Learning Disability Assessments ADHD Assessments Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders Personality Assessments Geriatric Assessment Infertility Concerns Eating Disorders.
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
Therapy Services Family/couples therapy Adult psychotherapy Adolescent psychotherapy (Ages 13-17) Trauma therapy Child Trauma psychotherapy (Ages 3-12) Parenting consultations Social skills training Psychological Testing Cognitive and Achievement Assessments Learning Disability Assessments ADHD Assessments Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders Personality Assessments Geriatric Assessment Infertility Concerns Eating Disorders.
WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GET GOING You may not feel tough right now, but deep down you know you have the strength to tackle the problems you are facing. These problems may be extraordinary stressors, life transitions, combat fatigue, post-partum depression, unexpected/expected loss of close relationships, trauma, abuse, or relationship problems. I can be part of the team that assists you in strengthening the resources that you have inside. RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILIES CAN BE LIKE DOMINOS Families and couples are linked. If part of that link is broke or off balance, other members involved can be affected.
(708) 512-7179 View (708) 512-7179
Photo of Kalyani Gopal, Psychologist in Valparaiso, IN
Kalyani Gopal
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, FACAPP
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
ADHD, Learning disabilities, neuropsychological assessments, personality assessments, alcohol and drug treatments, Anger Management Groups, Parenting Groups - Specialized ADHD parenting and kids groups, RAD, Managing Angry teens groups,.
Specialties: Neuropsychology, psychological testing and evaluation, attachment disorders, personality disorders, sex trafficking victims, domestic violence victims, juvenile delinquency, academic failure,school adjustment, mental illness in all ages, child abuse and neglect, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, trauma treatment, parenting challenges, foster care and foster parenting. She specializes in women's health issues, male relationships and commitment issues, couples therapy, divorce mediation and is a credentialed custody evaluator and disability evaluator. She is the author of two books and two clinical workbooks. The book, "How to Nurture the Traumatized Child" is available on Amazon.
ADHD, Learning disabilities, neuropsychological assessments, personality assessments, alcohol and drug treatments, Anger Management Groups, Parenting Groups - Specialized ADHD parenting and kids groups, RAD, Managing Angry teens groups,.
Specialties: Neuropsychology, psychological testing and evaluation, attachment disorders, personality disorders, sex trafficking victims, domestic violence victims, juvenile delinquency, academic failure,school adjustment, mental illness in all ages, child abuse and neglect, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, trauma treatment, parenting challenges, foster care and foster parenting. She specializes in women's health issues, male relationships and commitment issues, couples therapy, divorce mediation and is a credentialed custody evaluator and disability evaluator. She is the author of two books and two clinical workbooks. The book, "How to Nurture the Traumatized Child" is available on Amazon.
(219) 214-4137 View (219) 214-4137
Photo of Dr. Mashone Parker (Infinity Counseling), Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Dr. Mashone Parker (Infinity Counseling)
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
Are you tired of the long wait lists to receive the help you need? We are offering same week online and in person sessions for people in our communities including psychiatric and medication services. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your mental health needs. You may worry that what you feel right now may get worse, or you're thinking will I feel this way forever? I am here to tell you that it can get better and with dedication it will.
Are you tired of the long wait lists to receive the help you need? We are offering same week online and in person sessions for people in our communities including psychiatric and medication services. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your mental health needs. You may worry that what you feel right now may get worse, or you're thinking will I feel this way forever? I am here to tell you that it can get better and with dedication it will.
(219) 488-1937 View (219) 488-1937
Photo of Melodie Pitzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valparaiso, IN
Melodie Pitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, IN 46041
There are so many challenges in life; difficult life transitions, traumatic events, relationship issues, and instability that negatively impact one's mental, emotional, and physical health. If you feel that you need assistance with managing the stressors of daily life, I'm glad you are looking for a therapist. You have taken the first step to positive change in your life! I would greatly enjoy the pleasure of partnering with you! I work with all ages with a wide variety of presenting problems. I specialize in child, adolescent, and early adulthood counseling while partnering with the family to promote continuous positive change.
There are so many challenges in life; difficult life transitions, traumatic events, relationship issues, and instability that negatively impact one's mental, emotional, and physical health. If you feel that you need assistance with managing the stressors of daily life, I'm glad you are looking for a therapist. You have taken the first step to positive change in your life! I would greatly enjoy the pleasure of partnering with you! I work with all ages with a wide variety of presenting problems. I specialize in child, adolescent, and early adulthood counseling while partnering with the family to promote continuous positive change.
(765) 268-9515 View (765) 268-9515
Photo of Dr. Jeff Feathergill at Feathergill & Associates, Psychologist in Valparaiso, IN
Dr. Jeff Feathergill at Feathergill & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mishawaka, IN 46545
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, or simply desire personal growth and the ability to make positive changes in your life, the therapists at Feathergill & Associates can help. We provide outpatient services to adults, adolescents, couples and families. Our goal is to help you obtain relief from distress, develop self-confidence, and enjoy a more enriched, fulfilling, and empowered life.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, or simply desire personal growth and the ability to make positive changes in your life, the therapists at Feathergill & Associates can help. We provide outpatient services to adults, adolescents, couples and families. Our goal is to help you obtain relief from distress, develop self-confidence, and enjoy a more enriched, fulfilling, and empowered life.
(574) 319-7238 View (574) 319-7238
Photo of Abigail Ercoli, Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Abigail Ercoli
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint John, IN 46373
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is an opportunity for you to make the improvements in your life that are necessary or desired to meet your goals. Therefore I utilize many different approaches and sessions are geared toward your needs so you can see the outcome you desire. I work with individuals, families and couples dealing with various issues from working through everyday issues to chronic mental health issues. I believe in the process of counseling and believe it has to be individualized toward the client not the therapist. I look forward to working with you to help you reach your goals.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to make the improvements in your life that are necessary or desired to meet your goals. Therefore I utilize many different approaches and sessions are geared toward your needs so you can see the outcome you desire. I work with individuals, families and couples dealing with various issues from working through everyday issues to chronic mental health issues. I believe in the process of counseling and believe it has to be individualized toward the client not the therapist. I look forward to working with you to help you reach your goals.
(219) 595-9597 View (219) 595-9597
Photo of Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery, Counselor in Valparaiso, IN
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
(219) 291-3931 View (219) 291-3931
Great Lakes Psychological Assessment
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Testing and evaluation help a person improve functioning, mood, and behavior. Testing measures attention span, memory, language skills, judgment skills, stressors, thought patterns, feelings, behaviors, and developmental problems. We identify and diagnose anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cognitive disorders, substance use disorders, and more. Psychological evaluations encourage self-awareness, guide therapy, help a person make good career decisions, and assist in academic placements.
Testing and evaluation help a person improve functioning, mood, and behavior. Testing measures attention span, memory, language skills, judgment skills, stressors, thought patterns, feelings, behaviors, and developmental problems. We identify and diagnose anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cognitive disorders, substance use disorders, and more. Psychological evaluations encourage self-awareness, guide therapy, help a person make good career decisions, and assist in academic placements.
(260) 254-2405 View (260) 254-2405

Nearby Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists Searches for Valparaiso

See More Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists
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.