Photo of Lisa Miller Zawko, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Lisa Miller Zawko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Lisa is well versed in working with families from different backgrounds and clients who are diagnosed with various learning disabilities.
Lisa is an Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor who has more than ten years of experience specializing in working with children, teens, and families in private, public, and charter schools in metro Atlanta. She encompasses a unique perspective stemming from her years as a teacher, school counselor, and school-based therapist providing a proactive approach to wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Mississippi, Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Reinhardt University, and Master of Science in School Counseling from Mercer University.
Lisa is well versed in working with families from different backgrounds and clients who are diagnosed with various learning disabilities.
Lisa is an Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor who has more than ten years of experience specializing in working with children, teens, and families in private, public, and charter schools in metro Atlanta. She encompasses a unique perspective stemming from her years as a teacher, school counselor, and school-based therapist providing a proactive approach to wellness. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Mississippi, Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Reinhardt University, and Master of Science in School Counseling from Mercer University.
(678) 726-1749 View (678) 726-1749
Photo of Chrystyl D. Tutt, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Chrystyl D. Tutt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
I have been actively practicing psychology in the Atlanta area for over 15 years, specializing in providing individual and family therapies to children, adolescents, and adults to address various concerns including ADHD, behavioral problems, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I also conduct psychoeducational evaluations, which are unique in that they not only examine a student’s intellectual potential, academic achievement, and processing abilities, but also include an in-depth analysis of expressive and receptive language skills. In addition, I offer educational consultation for families.
I have been actively practicing psychology in the Atlanta area for over 15 years, specializing in providing individual and family therapies to children, adolescents, and adults to address various concerns including ADHD, behavioral problems, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I also conduct psychoeducational evaluations, which are unique in that they not only examine a student’s intellectual potential, academic achievement, and processing abilities, but also include an in-depth analysis of expressive and receptive language skills. In addition, I offer educational consultation for families.
(404) 574-6291 View (404) 574-6291
Photo of Carol Matheson, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Carol Matheson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
I specialize in working with children and adolescents targeting ADHD, behavioral issues, anger management, depression, and anxiety. I also offer psychological evaluations addressing possible ADHD, learning disabilities, processing deficits, dyslexia, or emotional/behavioral issues. I provide individual counseling, parent coaching, and psychological evaluations. I also work with schools in terms of observations or consultation. I am currently a consultant at the The Westminster Schools and worked as the Learning Specialist for several years. I received my undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University and my PhD in School Psychology at Pennsylvania State University. I have worked with children and adolescents for over 25 years.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents targeting ADHD, behavioral issues, anger management, depression, and anxiety. I also offer psychological evaluations addressing possible ADHD, learning disabilities, processing deficits, dyslexia, or emotional/behavioral issues. I provide individual counseling, parent coaching, and psychological evaluations. I also work with schools in terms of observations or consultation. I am currently a consultant at the The Westminster Schools and worked as the Learning Specialist for several years. I received my undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University and my PhD in School Psychology at Pennsylvania State University. I have worked with children and adolescents for over 25 years.
(404) 793-0002 x702 View (404) 793-0002 x702
Photo of Center for Psychological & Educational Assessment, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Center for Psychological & Educational Assessment
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30312
We specialize in evaluations tailored to the individual child in order to explore learning issues, attention/behavioral issues, and developmental delays.
We specialize in diagnostic assessment of early learning and behavioral issues as well as developmental and attention disorders. Many of our clinicians have over 25 years experience practicing psychology in general and psychoeducational school settings, private settings, and in hospital settings with children to young adults ranging in age from ages 2 through 21 years. Several are Nationally Certified School Psychologists and are well-versed in special education eligibility and services in Georgia public schools.
We specialize in evaluations tailored to the individual child in order to explore learning issues, attention/behavioral issues, and developmental delays.
We specialize in diagnostic assessment of early learning and behavioral issues as well as developmental and attention disorders. Many of our clinicians have over 25 years experience practicing psychology in general and psychoeducational school settings, private settings, and in hospital settings with children to young adults ranging in age from ages 2 through 21 years. Several are Nationally Certified School Psychologists and are well-versed in special education eligibility and services in Georgia public schools.
(770) 212-9923 View (770) 212-9923
Stephanie Hurst Perleberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30345
My practice involves a balance of assessment and therapy services. I specialize in assessment for learning differences and developmental delays. For over 20 years, I have worked with children and families facing the challenges of learning disabilities, attention problems, autism spectrum disorders, seizure and tic disorders, and a variety of developmental disabilities. I work with individuals and families who have additional pressures that are involved when a family member has chronic medical illness or disability concerns. I am passionate about helping clients adjust to the these challenges, with a focus on maintaining healthy relationships and routines for all family members.
My practice involves a balance of assessment and therapy services. I specialize in assessment for learning differences and developmental delays. For over 20 years, I have worked with children and families facing the challenges of learning disabilities, attention problems, autism spectrum disorders, seizure and tic disorders, and a variety of developmental disabilities. I work with individuals and families who have additional pressures that are involved when a family member has chronic medical illness or disability concerns. I am passionate about helping clients adjust to the these challenges, with a focus on maintaining healthy relationships and routines for all family members.
(678) 971-2386 View (678) 971-2386
Photo of Magnolia Wellness & Psychology, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Magnolia Wellness & Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30301
Ever wondered if you or your child may have Autism, ADHD, or a Learning Disability? Does your child struggle with social interaction, regulating emotions, or changes in routine? Do you have trouble paying attention, getting things done, or remembering important things? Has your child struggled in one or more areas of learning? If you answered yes to any of these, an evaluation, counseling, or coaching could be what you need! Our goal is to understand who you are, highlight both your strengths and vulnerabilities, and offer action plans that help you meet your personal, professional, academic, and social-emotional goals!
Ever wondered if you or your child may have Autism, ADHD, or a Learning Disability? Does your child struggle with social interaction, regulating emotions, or changes in routine? Do you have trouble paying attention, getting things done, or remembering important things? Has your child struggled in one or more areas of learning? If you answered yes to any of these, an evaluation, counseling, or coaching could be what you need! Our goal is to understand who you are, highlight both your strengths and vulnerabilities, and offer action plans that help you meet your personal, professional, academic, and social-emotional goals!
(678) 562-8824 View (678) 562-8824
Photo of Penny A. Hays, Ph.D., Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Penny A. Hays, Ph.D.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of: Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Behavioral Problems Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, and Anxiety Disorders I particularly enjoy assessments where I can help solve the mystery of how to best help students who are struggling academically.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of: Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Behavioral Problems Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, and Anxiety Disorders I particularly enjoy assessments where I can help solve the mystery of how to best help students who are struggling academically.
(770) 285-1762 View (770) 285-1762
Photo of Sara Deckelbaum, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Sara Deckelbaum
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in conducting psychological, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. My evaluations utilize a variety of assessment methods chosen to address the individual's particular needs. I have worked in independent practice in the Atlanta area since 2010 evaluating individuals presenting with a wide range of diagnostic concerns, including: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Learning Disorders, Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities, executive dysfunction, and other behavioral problems. My psychological evaluations assist individuals and their families in gaining a thorough understanding of his/her unique abilities and areas of strength and weakness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in conducting psychological, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological evaluations with children, adolescents, and adults. My evaluations utilize a variety of assessment methods chosen to address the individual's particular needs. I have worked in independent practice in the Atlanta area since 2010 evaluating individuals presenting with a wide range of diagnostic concerns, including: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Learning Disorders, Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities, executive dysfunction, and other behavioral problems. My psychological evaluations assist individuals and their families in gaining a thorough understanding of his/her unique abilities and areas of strength and weakness.
(770) 766-9758 View (770) 766-9758
Photo of Katy Tubesing, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Katy Tubesing
Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316
Before becoming a therapist, I worked for 15 years as a teacher, tutor and academic coach and prioritized building relationships as the foundation for learning.
All of us have a need for belonging and significance, and sometimes we feel discouraged: by our past, choices we have made or things we have experienced, as well as people we have encountered. I work with clients to figure out what is causing distress, and focus on strengths and resources in a personalized approach to facilitate healing, growth, and the development of new skills. Along the way, what Rudolph Dreikurs called “the courage to be imperfect” can emerge.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked for 15 years as a teacher, tutor and academic coach and prioritized building relationships as the foundation for learning.
All of us have a need for belonging and significance, and sometimes we feel discouraged: by our past, choices we have made or things we have experienced, as well as people we have encountered. I work with clients to figure out what is causing distress, and focus on strengths and resources in a personalized approach to facilitate healing, growth, and the development of new skills. Along the way, what Rudolph Dreikurs called “the courage to be imperfect” can emerge.
(470) 391-4033 View (470) 391-4033
Photo of Viviana Silva-Horne, Associate Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Viviana Silva-Horne
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, APC, NCC, CRC, BCBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
My behavioral modification approach helps individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, impulsivity, masking, and outburst of anger—neurodiverse individuals with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
A very warm welcome to you! I am a bilingual (Spanish) Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I specialize in Clinical Rehabilitation (CRC) and Behavioral Counseling (BCBA). I provide individual, group, and family counseling services. I am a passionate advocate for person-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally positive counseling where you, the client, are empowered to decide how to change. As your counselor, "I want to empower you with the tools and the knowledge you need to overcome and succeed in all aspects of your life."
My behavioral modification approach helps individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, impulsivity, masking, and outburst of anger—neurodiverse individuals with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
A very warm welcome to you! I am a bilingual (Spanish) Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I specialize in Clinical Rehabilitation (CRC) and Behavioral Counseling (BCBA). I provide individual, group, and family counseling services. I am a passionate advocate for person-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally positive counseling where you, the client, are empowered to decide how to change. As your counselor, "I want to empower you with the tools and the knowledge you need to overcome and succeed in all aspects of your life."
(404) 689-2979 View (404) 689-2979
Photo of Leigh Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Leigh Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
My experience includes working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of difficulties, in both individual and group sessions, in school, church, community and private practice settings. I understand how challenging it is to seek help and the courage it takes to change. We carry with us the unconscious lessons and ways of being that we learned in our earliest relationships. By uncovering these ineffective life strategies and learning new ways of relating, I am committed to helping you develop the tools you need to achieve lasting transformation in your life.
My experience includes working with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of difficulties, in both individual and group sessions, in school, church, community and private practice settings. I understand how challenging it is to seek help and the courage it takes to change. We carry with us the unconscious lessons and ways of being that we learned in our earliest relationships. By uncovering these ineffective life strategies and learning new ways of relating, I am committed to helping you develop the tools you need to achieve lasting transformation in your life.
(404) 381-8026 View (404) 381-8026
Photo of Taya Larenkova Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Taya Larenkova Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Are you a parent/caregiver whose CHILD is struggling with impulse control, excessive worries, anxiety, or depression? Do you/your child need help with stress or anger management, aggressive or withdrawn behavior, social skills or learning difficulties, grief or trauma, divorce or family conflict? Are you feeling discouraged and frustrated that many methods of dealing with your problems haven't helped? Your knowledge of your family and my clinical expertise is what you need for a change. I can help you resolve your problems, improve your communication, your ability to understand your child/partner, and enjoy your relationships more.
Are you a parent/caregiver whose CHILD is struggling with impulse control, excessive worries, anxiety, or depression? Do you/your child need help with stress or anger management, aggressive or withdrawn behavior, social skills or learning difficulties, grief or trauma, divorce or family conflict? Are you feeling discouraged and frustrated that many methods of dealing with your problems haven't helped? Your knowledge of your family and my clinical expertise is what you need for a change. I can help you resolve your problems, improve your communication, your ability to understand your child/partner, and enjoy your relationships more.
(404) 856-0430 View (404) 856-0430
Photo of Anita K Grover, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Anita K Grover
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
I conduct comprehensive evaluations, aimed at evaluating possible learning disorders, attention regulation concerns (ADHD), dyslexia, processing deficits, and behavioral/emotional issues.
Working with a psychologist should be a positive and beneficial experience. Not only do I believe in supporting my clients through successes and challenges, I love my work and am very dedicated to those I work with. In my practice, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological assessments and therapy with children, adolescents, and young adults. Currently, I have a private practice in Atlanta; I am an attending psychologist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta; and I perform neuropsychological/ psychoeducational evaluations at Georgia State University.
I conduct comprehensive evaluations, aimed at evaluating possible learning disorders, attention regulation concerns (ADHD), dyslexia, processing deficits, and behavioral/emotional issues.
Working with a psychologist should be a positive and beneficial experience. Not only do I believe in supporting my clients through successes and challenges, I love my work and am very dedicated to those I work with. In my practice, I specialize in providing comprehensive psychological assessments and therapy with children, adolescents, and young adults. Currently, I have a private practice in Atlanta; I am an attending psychologist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta; and I perform neuropsychological/ psychoeducational evaluations at Georgia State University.
(404) 975-1928 View (404) 975-1928
Photo of Paige Dee, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Paige Dee
Counselor, LAPC, PMH-C, OCDCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30360  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
And from years of therapeutic learning and being a mom, I've gained a special love for supporting perinatal people and their supports.
Struggling with a sense of meaningfulness? Does anxiety, depression, or a past or current life circumstance complicate things? I would be honored to support you in your trying time. I will approach treatment alongside you and draw from various Cognitive Behavior (CBT, DBT, ACT), Strengths-Based, Exposure, and Intersectional Feminism orientations. I will support you as you work to adjust positively to your life challenges through learning and applying effective changes, coping skills, and mindfulness. I feel empowering individuality and embracing radical acceptance is key to you traveling a path you find most meaningful and worthy.
And from years of therapeutic learning and being a mom, I've gained a special love for supporting perinatal people and their supports.
Struggling with a sense of meaningfulness? Does anxiety, depression, or a past or current life circumstance complicate things? I would be honored to support you in your trying time. I will approach treatment alongside you and draw from various Cognitive Behavior (CBT, DBT, ACT), Strengths-Based, Exposure, and Intersectional Feminism orientations. I will support you as you work to adjust positively to your life challenges through learning and applying effective changes, coping skills, and mindfulness. I feel empowering individuality and embracing radical acceptance is key to you traveling a path you find most meaningful and worthy.
(470) 517-6967 View (470) 517-6967
Photo of Decia Dixon, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Decia Dixon
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
Are you wondering if your child has a learning disability (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia) or another disorder (e.g., ADHD)? Has the school recommended testing? Watching your child struggle in school can be disconcerting and demoralizing, especially if you’ve tried to help in every way you know how. Perhaps you know your child is bright, but you can’t understand why they are not demonstrating their "true potential?" Or, maybe assisting them with their homework is so time-consuming and taxing that you feel inadequate, as if you are failing them as a parent? Let me collaborate with you and your child to help them thrive.
Are you wondering if your child has a learning disability (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia) or another disorder (e.g., ADHD)? Has the school recommended testing? Watching your child struggle in school can be disconcerting and demoralizing, especially if you’ve tried to help in every way you know how. Perhaps you know your child is bright, but you can’t understand why they are not demonstrating their "true potential?" Or, maybe assisting them with their homework is so time-consuming and taxing that you feel inadequate, as if you are failing them as a parent? Let me collaborate with you and your child to help them thrive.
(678) 929-5343 View (678) 929-5343
Photo of Avital K Cohen, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Avital K Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
I have always enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families. Currently, my primary focus is on the assessment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), as well as other common problems in the pediatric population, including developmental delays, learning problems, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional disorders, behavioral issues, and more. I am also able to provide a variety of treatment planning/care coordination services, but do not currently offer therapy services. In addition to my work with children and families, I also offer assessment and treatment planning services for adults on the autism spectrum and with other developmental concerns.
I have always enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and their families. Currently, my primary focus is on the assessment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), as well as other common problems in the pediatric population, including developmental delays, learning problems, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), emotional disorders, behavioral issues, and more. I am also able to provide a variety of treatment planning/care coordination services, but do not currently offer therapy services. In addition to my work with children and families, I also offer assessment and treatment planning services for adults on the autism spectrum and with other developmental concerns.
(678) 647-1050 View (678) 647-1050
Photo of Janet K. Patton, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Janet K. Patton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
I am a licensed psychologist who provides comprehensive psychological assessments to address possible learning disorders, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing deficits, and emotional/behavioral issues. Additionally, I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, behavioral issues, OCD/panic, and marriage/family issues. I see clients across the lifespan, and provide individual, couples and family therapy. I received my PhD at the University of Georgia, and completed a two-year fellowship in psychology at the Yale Child Study Center.
I am a licensed psychologist who provides comprehensive psychological assessments to address possible learning disorders, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing deficits, and emotional/behavioral issues. Additionally, I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, behavioral issues, OCD/panic, and marriage/family issues. I see clients across the lifespan, and provide individual, couples and family therapy. I received my PhD at the University of Georgia, and completed a two-year fellowship in psychology at the Yale Child Study Center.
(470) 300-1998 x700 View (470) 300-1998 x700
Photo of Judy Lev, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Judy Lev
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
Therapy is a healing force in itself–peeling away those layers of influence around us, (re)learning ourselves from a space of unconditional, radical acceptance.
Maybe you are ready to make a shift and looking for a safe space and meaningful therapeutic process to support you. Let's see if I am the right fit for you....I am easy to talk to, warm and authentic. You will feel it when you sit with me. I will support you as you (re)learn to trust yourself and cultivate the ability to listen closely to what you already know. My orientation is grounded in the belief that we are all born into this world with an innate ability to know deeply what we need. We develop layers of protection to survive this world, and I am here to help you get back to who you truly are.
Therapy is a healing force in itself–peeling away those layers of influence around us, (re)learning ourselves from a space of unconditional, radical acceptance.
Maybe you are ready to make a shift and looking for a safe space and meaningful therapeutic process to support you. Let's see if I am the right fit for you....I am easy to talk to, warm and authentic. You will feel it when you sit with me. I will support you as you (re)learn to trust yourself and cultivate the ability to listen closely to what you already know. My orientation is grounded in the belief that we are all born into this world with an innate ability to know deeply what we need. We develop layers of protection to survive this world, and I am here to help you get back to who you truly are.
(678) 750-4647 View (678) 750-4647
Photo of Nicolanne Smith Eustace, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Nicolanne Smith Eustace
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
As a child and adolescent therapist, I acknowledge the joys and the challenges we as parents often experience. By working with children and their parents as a family system, there is an increase in the overall efficacy of treatment. Often, many of our struggles as a family stem from our ability to fully understand each others' experiences and view points. Learning to communicate more effectively, regulate emotions, and be more mindful in our every day lives can drastically improve our personal and familial experiences.
As a child and adolescent therapist, I acknowledge the joys and the challenges we as parents often experience. By working with children and their parents as a family system, there is an increase in the overall efficacy of treatment. Often, many of our struggles as a family stem from our ability to fully understand each others' experiences and view points. Learning to communicate more effectively, regulate emotions, and be more mindful in our every day lives can drastically improve our personal and familial experiences.
(678) 263-7486 View (678) 263-7486
Photo of Kirsten L Moore, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Kirsten L Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
Are you a parent, adult, or teen who has faced anxiety, panic, depression, mood swings, obsessions, attention problems, or impulsivity? You or your loved one may have had urges to harm themselves or had difficulty making or keeping healthy relationships. I help clients live a Life they experience as Worth Living, learning coping skills to deal with life’s stressors and solve problems one moment at a time. Find peace of mind and live your best life!
(678) 264-3991 View (678) 264-3991
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.