Education and Learning Disabilities Psychiatrists in California

Photo of Edward M Hallowell, Psychiatrist in California
Edward M Hallowell
Psychiatrist, MD, EdD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
We diagnose and treat learning problems in people of all ages and the issue of underachievement both in school and in adult life.
You are not alone! Let me help you, or a person you love, live joyfully and successfully with ADHD. At the Hallowell Centers in Boston MetroWest, New York City, Palo Alto, San Francisco & Seattle, we understand the struggles that accompany ADHD. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and cognitive and behavioral concerns for all ages. Since I have both ADHD & dyslexia, we understand these conditions from a personal as well as professional standpoint. Using my strength-based approach, we help you tap into those strengths, and minimize the struggles using effective and proven methods, both with and without medication.
We diagnose and treat learning problems in people of all ages and the issue of underachievement both in school and in adult life.
You are not alone! Let me help you, or a person you love, live joyfully and successfully with ADHD. At the Hallowell Centers in Boston MetroWest, New York City, Palo Alto, San Francisco & Seattle, we understand the struggles that accompany ADHD. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and cognitive and behavioral concerns for all ages. Since I have both ADHD & dyslexia, we understand these conditions from a personal as well as professional standpoint. Using my strength-based approach, we help you tap into those strengths, and minimize the struggles using effective and proven methods, both with and without medication.
(978) 767-8628 View (978) 767-8628
Photo of Plant Based Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in California
Plant Based Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, BA, MD
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
No Insurance Accepted! No In Person Session. My personalized programs address psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Autism, ODD, Conduct disorder, Learning disorders, and many others. Patients in my care seek me out to reduce the amount of psychiatric medication they are on or start and continue with non medication options throughout their healing journey. My services provide hope of reducing your symptoms with or without medications which may be causing side effects. This personalized program allows us to get to the root causes of your issues and start a new together towards healthybrains,behavior,emotion.
No Insurance Accepted! No In Person Session. My personalized programs address psychiatric conditions such as ADHD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Autism, ODD, Conduct disorder, Learning disorders, and many others. Patients in my care seek me out to reduce the amount of psychiatric medication they are on or start and continue with non medication options throughout their healing journey. My services provide hope of reducing your symptoms with or without medications which may be causing side effects. This personalized program allows us to get to the root causes of your issues and start a new together towards healthybrains,behavior,emotion.
(562) 667-2285 View (562) 667-2285
Photo of Sahar Douek, Psychiatrist in California
Sahar Douek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
I have experience in treating: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders (bipolar disorder), psychotic disorders, trauma related conditions such as PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, irritability and anger problems as well as neurodevelopment disorders including but not limited to intellectual disabilities, autism, learning disorders, and ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
I have experience in treating: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders (bipolar disorder), psychotic disorders, trauma related conditions such as PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, irritability and anger problems as well as neurodevelopment disorders including but not limited to intellectual disabilities, autism, learning disorders, and ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
(818) 654-4989 View (818) 654-4989
Photo of Melinda Cuthbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Melinda Cuthbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Tiburon, CA 94920
Waitlist for new clients
I have a special interest in those who are neurodiverse (autism, learning differences, ADHD, and social anxiety), have brain trauma, a disability or are LGTBQIA or gender fluid, & adolescents & young adults.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
I have a special interest in those who are neurodiverse (autism, learning differences, ADHD, and social anxiety), have brain trauma, a disability or are LGTBQIA or gender fluid, & adolescents & young adults.
I have a passion for helping people live their best lives through accurate diagnosis, supportive therapy and evidence-based treatments in psychiatric care. I respect the courage and commitment it requires to present for care. I partner with you and bring over 30 years in inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatry to help you meet your life goals. Developing innovative programs in technology and medical companies taught me strategies to support breaking large life issues into actionable items which can be addressed by Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other evidence-based interventions.
(415) 891-1908 View (415) 891-1908
Photo of Ivana Viani, Psychiatrist in California
Ivana Viani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
Dr. Ivana Viani is a psychiatrist certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated with honors from Harvard Medical School, completed her psychiatry residency in Boston, and her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. She primarily specializes in working with young people with autism and other neurodivergencies, such as ADHD and learning differences, and those who are highly talented or knowledgeable in one or more domains. Dr. Viani is an LGBTQIA+ ally.
(310) 582-5823 View (310) 582-5823
Photo of Palo Alto Wellness, Psychiatrist in California
Palo Alto Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Periodically, I also provide opportunities for group learning and group therapy.
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
Periodically, I also provide opportunities for group learning and group therapy.
PLEASE NOTE: WE DO NOT ACCEPT INSURANCE. Dr. Shivani Chmura is an expert in treating patients with an evidence based, compassionate approach. She also has extensive experience with medication management for eating disorders. Dr. Chmura is trained in both Child and Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry from UCSF and Stanford Universities. She uses a warm, holistic approach to treating every individual, couple, and family. Dr. Chmura is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, (CBT, DBT, Supportive). She is an expert on pharmacologic management for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, and post-partum depression and anxiety.
(415) 993-4146 View (415) 993-4146
Photo of Maxine C Okafor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Maxine C Okafor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203  (Online Only)
She has spent her life learning about every aspect of the human body to give her patients a “whole body” and “individualized” approach to medicine.
I work in CA, AZ, and TX. Dr. Okafor knew from an early age that her purpose in life was to serve, help, and heal others. She received her BSN degree in 2012, Masters of Science degree and license as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2017, then went on to receive her second Masters of Science degree and license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2019. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2020. Dr. O, as many of her clients call her, has worked in almost every area of healthcare. Dr. O has a passion for caring for her clients to reach remission and maintain their quality of life.
She has spent her life learning about every aspect of the human body to give her patients a “whole body” and “individualized” approach to medicine.
I work in CA, AZ, and TX. Dr. Okafor knew from an early age that her purpose in life was to serve, help, and heal others. She received her BSN degree in 2012, Masters of Science degree and license as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2017, then went on to receive her second Masters of Science degree and license as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree in 2019. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2020. Dr. O, as many of her clients call her, has worked in almost every area of healthcare. Dr. O has a passion for caring for her clients to reach remission and maintain their quality of life.
(480) 771-1721 View (480) 771-1721
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
The Mindful Lemon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91350  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(661) 338-5530 View (661) 338-5530
Photo of Medard Sison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Medard Sison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
(657) 220-8068 View (657) 220-8068
Photo of Sherif El-Asyouty, Psychiatrist in California
Sherif El-Asyouty
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93111  (Online Only)
Dr. El-Asyouty believes it’s important to not confuse the person with their illness. Alcoholism, substance abuse and chemical dependency are all diseases that affect the nervous system resulting in a loss of control over the use of substances. Dr. El-Asyouty is aware of the need to be very careful about using addictive medications in patients who are in recovery from addiction. Additionally, it is also important to recognize that people who are in recovery from depression and anxiety usually also require a change in the way that the individual processes feeling information, which Dr. El-Asyouty provides in a training program.
Dr. El-Asyouty believes it’s important to not confuse the person with their illness. Alcoholism, substance abuse and chemical dependency are all diseases that affect the nervous system resulting in a loss of control over the use of substances. Dr. El-Asyouty is aware of the need to be very careful about using addictive medications in patients who are in recovery from addiction. Additionally, it is also important to recognize that people who are in recovery from depression and anxiety usually also require a change in the way that the individual processes feeling information, which Dr. El-Asyouty provides in a training program.
(805) 870-8046 View (805) 870-8046
Photo of Deval A Shah, Psychiatrist in California
Deval A Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultation as well as psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. I also work with other providers who are providing psychotherapy where I would manage the psychiatric medications of the patient. I believe in working together with all providers as a team.
(858) 926-5815 View (858) 926-5815
Photo of Ehab Yacoub MD, Psychiatrist in California
Ehab Yacoub MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
Ehab Yacoub, M.D. is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Mood Disorder, Psychosis, Autism, Intellectual disability, and Certified Addiction Specialist (Certified by AAAP for Opiod Dependence Treatment). He also conducts evaluations for weight loss surgeries. Dr. Yacoub had his fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at USC. Dr.Yacoub has practiced in regional centers as well as private practices in Los Angeles, Northridge and Gardena offices.
(424) 343-2109 View (424) 343-2109
Photo of DIA Health - accessible psychiatric care, Psychiatrist in California
DIA Health - accessible psychiatric care
Psychiatrist, MD, NP
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Our group of experienced clinicians has a collective goal of making high-quality mental health care more accessible. At DIA Health, you will have a dedicated mental health care clinician who will provide treatment tailored to your individual needs to help you live and function better. Personalized, high-quality mental health care is often out of reach to the average patient and family. To address this gap, we focus on patients who choose to use their commercial insurance to cover mental health care needs.
Our group of experienced clinicians has a collective goal of making high-quality mental health care more accessible. At DIA Health, you will have a dedicated mental health care clinician who will provide treatment tailored to your individual needs to help you live and function better. Personalized, high-quality mental health care is often out of reach to the average patient and family. To address this gap, we focus on patients who choose to use their commercial insurance to cover mental health care needs.
(510) 962-7049 View (510) 962-7049
Photo of Ahsan Shaikh, Psychiatrist in California
Ahsan Shaikh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95135  (Online Only)
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Adult Psychiatrist with over 19 years of service to children, families and adults. I use a strength based approach to healing focused on developing self-awareness through compassion. As part of the healing process, I support families in their journey to uncover the wisdom hidden in their distress. ​ I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders and PTSD. ​ I specialize in Mind Body approaches to healing, integrating movement, exercise, nutrition and restful sleep strategies into treatment plans.
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Adult Psychiatrist with over 19 years of service to children, families and adults. I use a strength based approach to healing focused on developing self-awareness through compassion. As part of the healing process, I support families in their journey to uncover the wisdom hidden in their distress. ​ I have experience in treating depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum disorders and PTSD. ​ I specialize in Mind Body approaches to healing, integrating movement, exercise, nutrition and restful sleep strategies into treatment plans.
(408) 762-3234 View (408) 762-3234
Photo of Bonmente, Psychiatrist in California
Bonmente
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(424) 396-2018 View (424) 396-2018
Photo of Maryam Hakma Lateef, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Maryam Hakma Lateef
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MHNP-BC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Hi there, Are you struggling with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, not able to focus or concentrate when you need to? Are you considering psychiatric medication management as part of your treatment along with an integrated, holistic approach? Then welcome to my practice. I specialize in treating these conditions, using a holistic, integrated approach, including bio-energenetics. Each individual is a unique, multidimensional being with expressions of mind, body and spirit. The continuum of health, is maintained through a delicate balance of these divisions within the human energy field.
Hi there, Are you struggling with depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, not able to focus or concentrate when you need to? Are you considering psychiatric medication management as part of your treatment along with an integrated, holistic approach? Then welcome to my practice. I specialize in treating these conditions, using a holistic, integrated approach, including bio-energenetics. Each individual is a unique, multidimensional being with expressions of mind, body and spirit. The continuum of health, is maintained through a delicate balance of these divisions within the human energy field.
(520) 666-8099 View (520) 666-8099
Photo of Salina Lum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Salina Lum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92614
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's Degree at Cal State LA, Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences at UC-Irvine, and my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at West Coast University. I see clients ages 6 and above for medication management. I am passionate about providing quality and compassionate care and recognize the importance of building a trusting relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I received my Master's Degree at Cal State LA, Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences at UC-Irvine, and my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing at West Coast University. I see clients ages 6 and above for medication management. I am passionate about providing quality and compassionate care and recognize the importance of building a trusting relationship.
(949) 993-1301 View (949) 993-1301
Photo of Jacob Moussai, Psychiatrist in California
Jacob Moussai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, ADHD or low self-esteem? Are you stuck in an unwanted repetitive pattern or struggling to find a healthy relationship? I will work with you to shift gears and overcome the obstacles which are holding you back. I use the appropriate treatment for your needs, i.e. psychotherapy and/or medications. I am a board-certified psychiatrist who completed my training at Yale School of Medicine. I provide a comprehensive evaluation using an integrated approach to care, and build on your strengths.
(310) 775-1866 View (310) 775-1866
Photo of Nalleli Garrido, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in California
Nalleli Garrido
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
Nalleli Garrido, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nalleli graduated from California State University, Long Beach. Nalleli has over 7+ years of experience working with underserved communities with diverse mental health diagnoses. She loves to navigate new hobbies first hand in order to ensure patients gain meaningful coping skills. Her priority is to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management.
Nalleli Garrido, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Nalleli graduated from California State University, Long Beach. Nalleli has over 7+ years of experience working with underserved communities with diverse mental health diagnoses. She loves to navigate new hobbies first hand in order to ensure patients gain meaningful coping skills. Her priority is to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management.
(714) 909-1592 View (714) 909-1592
Photo of Aamir Khan, Psychiatrist in California
Aamir Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
My clinical approach focuses on understanding your journey getting here, taking into account the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting your life. As a psychiatrist trained in treating both adults and children, I strive to conceptualize your development over time. I aim to provide an affirming environment for individuals of all backgrounds and hope to understand your unique community and family system. My goal is to help you identify your individual strengths to better navigate life transitions, relationship dynamics, personal loss/grief, and academic/work-related goals.
My clinical approach focuses on understanding your journey getting here, taking into account the biological, psychological, and social factors impacting your life. As a psychiatrist trained in treating both adults and children, I strive to conceptualize your development over time. I aim to provide an affirming environment for individuals of all backgrounds and hope to understand your unique community and family system. My goal is to help you identify your individual strengths to better navigate life transitions, relationship dynamics, personal loss/grief, and academic/work-related goals.
(424) 404-1752 View (424) 404-1752

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Education and Learning Disabilities Psychiatrists

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.