Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Hollie Sobel, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Hollie Sobel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
She has expertise in the areas ADHD,anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral difficulties, and learning disorders.
Dr. Sobel received her doctorate in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Prior to launching PACT, she was a faculty member at the Family Institute at Northwestern University and Rush University Medical Center. She has specialization in conducting diagnostic, psychoeducational, and personality testing batteries to primarily children/adolescents with a variety of psychiatric and medical diagnoses. She also assists children and their families with school programming issues. Another area of clinical expertise is providing individual, family, and group psychotherapy. She has specialization in using researched-based cognitive-behavioral techniques
(872) 244-6455 View (872) 244-6455
Photo of Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr Robert John Zagar PC A Professional
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
I discover objectively what is the issue, applying the best treatment for abuse, aging, alcohol/substance use, anger, anxiety, attention deficit, autism spectrum disorders, bereavement, cancer, career consultation, coping, criminal charges, custody, delinquency, dementia, depression, divorce, DUI, dyslexia, hyperactivity, hypnosis, individualized education plans, insomnia, job loss, learning disability, lower productivity, neuropsychological exams, panic attacks, parenting, personal injury, personality tests, post automobile accident, relationships, stress, trauma, TBI, underachievement, vocational guidance, workers compensation.
(312) 266-3411 View (312) 266-3411
Photo of ADD Action Coach Inc in Chicago, IL
ADD Action Coach Inc
MEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626
We coach students and adults with ADHD symptoms, organizational obstacles, time management challenges, learning disabilities and those making business/personal transitions.
Are you overwhelmed by your ADHD symptoms? We have over 18,000 hours of coaching experience! We can help optimize your day to day functioning- whether in the work or school environment! We coach both adults and students who struggle with executive function and time management. As experts in the field of ADHD, executive function and learning challenges, we use strengths based approaches with an action based plan. If ADHD symptoms are negatively impacting your life, we can help! We have proven strategies in integrating new habits and embracing your ADHD symptoms by turning them into strengths!
We coach students and adults with ADHD symptoms, organizational obstacles, time management challenges, learning disabilities and those making business/personal transitions.
Are you overwhelmed by your ADHD symptoms? We have over 18,000 hours of coaching experience! We can help optimize your day to day functioning- whether in the work or school environment! We coach both adults and students who struggle with executive function and time management. As experts in the field of ADHD, executive function and learning challenges, we use strengths based approaches with an action based plan. If ADHD symptoms are negatively impacting your life, we can help! We have proven strategies in integrating new habits and embracing your ADHD symptoms by turning them into strengths!
(312) 756-7874 View (312) 756-7874
Photo of North Shore Center for ADHD and Learning in Chicago, IL
North Shore Center for ADHD and Learning
PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
We all learn and grow in our own unique ways. We have strengths and challenges, and need to understand them to be successful. The North Shore Center for ADHD and Learning offers an opportunity to learn about your unique talents and needs, in order to maximize your potential. Our biopsychosocial approach integrates an initial comprehensive assessment followed by recommendations for various treatment and educational interventions. The treatment plan can include pharmacological (medication) and behavioral approaches to ADHD and learning disorders.
We all learn and grow in our own unique ways. We have strengths and challenges, and need to understand them to be successful. The North Shore Center for ADHD and Learning offers an opportunity to learn about your unique talents and needs, in order to maximize your potential. Our biopsychosocial approach integrates an initial comprehensive assessment followed by recommendations for various treatment and educational interventions. The treatment plan can include pharmacological (medication) and behavioral approaches to ADHD and learning disorders.
(847) 278-9507 View (847) 278-9507
Photo of Richard David Bograd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Richard David Bograd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
With appropriate support, these same students can become strong self-advocates by understanding their learning style while applying strategies to manage school challenges.
Speaking to adults… Joseph Campbell defines Compassion as “…an immediate participation in the suffering of another to such a degree that you forget yourself and spontaneously do what is necessary.” With hybrid training as therapist, teacher, and coach, I compassionately support individuals exactly where they are in their life. Whether one wishes to address past trauma, wants to contemplate a career decision and change of environment, or wants support with relationships and life’s many unpredicted events, I create the space to do so at the pace and depth that the individual wants and is ready to successfully take on.
With appropriate support, these same students can become strong self-advocates by understanding their learning style while applying strategies to manage school challenges.
Speaking to adults… Joseph Campbell defines Compassion as “…an immediate participation in the suffering of another to such a degree that you forget yourself and spontaneously do what is necessary.” With hybrid training as therapist, teacher, and coach, I compassionately support individuals exactly where they are in their life. Whether one wishes to address past trauma, wants to contemplate a career decision and change of environment, or wants support with relationships and life’s many unpredicted events, I create the space to do so at the pace and depth that the individual wants and is ready to successfully take on.
(872) 666-9982 View (872) 666-9982
Photo of Beyond BookSmart in Chicago, IL
Beyond BookSmart
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
We often work with clients who have diagnoses of Anxiety, ADHD, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disability, and other learning differences - although many clients seek out coaching simply to be more effective and confident in their everyday lives.
The coaches at Beyond BookSmart are not therapists. We are Executive Function coaches, working with students and adults 1:1 online in the US and worldwide. We help clients learn and apply tools and strategies that help them focus better, manage their time and energy, plan projects, persist with tasks, organize materials and ideas, cope with text anxiety and perfectionism, and other areas that relate to productivity and effectiveness. Our 375+ coaches are Masters level and above professionals in the fields of education, school psychology, and speech-language pathology.
We often work with clients who have diagnoses of Anxiety, ADHD, Dyslexia, Nonverbal Learning Disability, and other learning differences - although many clients seek out coaching simply to be more effective and confident in their everyday lives.
The coaches at Beyond BookSmart are not therapists. We are Executive Function coaches, working with students and adults 1:1 online in the US and worldwide. We help clients learn and apply tools and strategies that help them focus better, manage their time and energy, plan projects, persist with tasks, organize materials and ideas, cope with text anxiety and perfectionism, and other areas that relate to productivity and effectiveness. Our 375+ coaches are Masters level and above professionals in the fields of education, school psychology, and speech-language pathology.
(781) 514-6508 View (781) 514-6508
Photo of Anequa Blakely, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Chicago, IL
Anequa Blakely
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, LPC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with adults suffering from depression and anxiety due to narcissistic abuse, racial discrimination/trauma, or job-related stress. With specialized training and education in Applied Behavior Analysis and behavior patterns, I also help adults with learning disabilities such as ADHD and dyslexia who are having difficulties performing and processing in occupational or school settings.
I am passionate about working with adults suffering from depression and anxiety due to narcissistic abuse, racial discrimination/trauma, or job-related stress. With specialized training and education in Applied Behavior Analysis and behavior patterns, I also help adults with learning disabilities such as ADHD and dyslexia who are having difficulties performing and processing in occupational or school settings.
(817) 631-6272 View (817) 631-6272
Photo of Nina Monet Dismukes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nina Monet Dismukes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Greetings, are you trying to create balance in your life? As your therapist, I offer a safe space and an atmosphere where you will feel heard and supported. I challenge my clients and encourage them to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Learning and unlearning thoughts/behaviors will be eye-opening for you. When expressing your needs, wants, struggles, past, goals, and much more it sometimes can feel overwhelming to keep a balance with your mental health and other life factors. As we embark on this therapeutic journey together, I feel honored to help you through this pivotal moment in your life.
Greetings, are you trying to create balance in your life? As your therapist, I offer a safe space and an atmosphere where you will feel heard and supported. I challenge my clients and encourage them to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Learning and unlearning thoughts/behaviors will be eye-opening for you. When expressing your needs, wants, struggles, past, goals, and much more it sometimes can feel overwhelming to keep a balance with your mental health and other life factors. As we embark on this therapeutic journey together, I feel honored to help you through this pivotal moment in your life.
(773) 830-3934 View (773) 830-3934
Photo of Anthony Campobasso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anthony Campobasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CIP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for over a decade. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person, because integrating the mind, the body and the community are essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma, addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the addiction and mental health field for over a decade. I offer Counseling and Coaching Services to individuals and couples who are interested in personal growth. I believe in treating the whole person, because integrating the mind, the body and the community are essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. From complex trauma, addiction to learning everyday life skills, I try to help individuals find strength and acceptance to overcome painful emotions. I strive for each client to leave sessions feeling empowered and confident in their abilities.
(708) 340-7895 View (708) 340-7895
Photo of Mollie Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mollie Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I will guide you in being creative, finding steady footing in an ever-changing world, improving routines, learning coping skills, and releasing underlying emotions to help you build a more mindful, joyful life.
Does it feel like you don’t quite fit in these hectic, demanding times? With 20 years of experience as an art therapist, I am here to help you in your healing journey through both talk and art therapy. I specialize in working with neurodiversity, queerness, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and depression with all ages in individual, couples, and family therapy. A deep and compassionate listener, I come to therapy with an open heart and a focus on you, in all your unique and intersecting identities. As a neurodivergent ceramic artist and photographer, I understand the joys and challenges of navigating the world being different from the norm.
I will guide you in being creative, finding steady footing in an ever-changing world, improving routines, learning coping skills, and releasing underlying emotions to help you build a more mindful, joyful life.
Does it feel like you don’t quite fit in these hectic, demanding times? With 20 years of experience as an art therapist, I am here to help you in your healing journey through both talk and art therapy. I specialize in working with neurodiversity, queerness, anxiety, ADHD, autism, and depression with all ages in individual, couples, and family therapy. A deep and compassionate listener, I come to therapy with an open heart and a focus on you, in all your unique and intersecting identities. As a neurodivergent ceramic artist and photographer, I understand the joys and challenges of navigating the world being different from the norm.
(224) 864-9166 View (224) 864-9166
Photo of Jamie Albright, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Jamie Albright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I apply a neurodiversity-affirming approach to psychological testing and evaluations for individuals ages 12+ with learning and attention concerns.
Making changes in our lives can feel impossible at times, even when our habits and thinking patterns no longer serve us. In the therapy room, I practice radical acceptance with the ups and downs of growth with humor, patience, and curiosity. Grounded in the DBT tradition, I prioritize nonjudgment and dialectical thinking: we can accept difficult realities and still lead a life worth living.
I apply a neurodiversity-affirming approach to psychological testing and evaluations for individuals ages 12+ with learning and attention concerns.
Making changes in our lives can feel impossible at times, even when our habits and thinking patterns no longer serve us. In the therapy room, I practice radical acceptance with the ups and downs of growth with humor, patience, and curiosity. Grounded in the DBT tradition, I prioritize nonjudgment and dialectical thinking: we can accept difficult realities and still lead a life worth living.
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Photo of Jane Shersher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jane Shersher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Jane has worked with children & adults facing life transitions, medical & learning disabilities, addiction, personality disorders, trauma, grief, psychosis, mood disorders, anxiety, & relationship challenges. Jane has 13 years of training & graduated from Loyola University Chicago. Jane is the founder of Summit Counseling Group, which helps people to live happier, healthier & more productive lives. Through the use of humanistic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, & integrative holistic approaches, clients develop skills and coping tools to better manage life's various obstacles. Therapy sessions develop insight into behavior trends, emotions, & communication patterns to create real progress.
Jane has worked with children & adults facing life transitions, medical & learning disabilities, addiction, personality disorders, trauma, grief, psychosis, mood disorders, anxiety, & relationship challenges. Jane has 13 years of training & graduated from Loyola University Chicago. Jane is the founder of Summit Counseling Group, which helps people to live happier, healthier & more productive lives. Through the use of humanistic psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, & integrative holistic approaches, clients develop skills and coping tools to better manage life's various obstacles. Therapy sessions develop insight into behavior trends, emotions, & communication patterns to create real progress.
(609) 564-1025 View (609) 564-1025
Photo of Missy Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Missy Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, I provide evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. I focus on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, I provide evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. I focus on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
(872) 204-1198 View (872) 204-1198
Photo of Danielle Zar, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Danielle Zar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical professional counselor, licensed school counselor and learning behavioral specialist, I help children and adolescents utilize healthier forms of coping and achieve inner joy. My clinical interests and expertise include generalized anxiety, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, parent-child conflict and behavior regulation.
As a licensed clinical professional counselor, licensed school counselor and learning behavioral specialist, I help children and adolescents utilize healthier forms of coping and achieve inner joy. My clinical interests and expertise include generalized anxiety, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, parent-child conflict and behavior regulation.
(312) 529-4647 View (312) 529-4647
Photo of Samantha Barker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Samantha Barker
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
I provide psychological evaluations to help diagnose and provide treatment recommendations for ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health conditions.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I have tremendous respect for the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach in order to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
I provide psychological evaluations to help diagnose and provide treatment recommendations for ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health conditions.
Asking for help isn't easy and takes a great deal of courage. I have tremendous respect for the individuals I work with and do my best to make their experience one that feels healing and encouraging. I work with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, chronic medical conditions, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I utilize a warm and thoughtful approach in order to create a genuine and collaborative partnership with each individual I work with.
(224) 701-3603 View (224) 701-3603
Photo of Kat Kline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kat Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRSS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel frustrated because you keep engaging in communication and behavior patterns that no longer serve you, or align with your values? Do you struggle with irritability, worry, poor focus, or memory problems? Do you find yourself experiencing problems with relationships, work, school, or life changes? If you're interested in learning new skills to manage stress/symptoms while effectively pursuing your goals, I might be able to help. Let's find ways you can thrive, not just survive.
Do you feel frustrated because you keep engaging in communication and behavior patterns that no longer serve you, or align with your values? Do you struggle with irritability, worry, poor focus, or memory problems? Do you find yourself experiencing problems with relationships, work, school, or life changes? If you're interested in learning new skills to manage stress/symptoms while effectively pursuing your goals, I might be able to help. Let's find ways you can thrive, not just survive.
(872) 204-1636 View (872) 204-1636
Photo of Blake D Osborne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Blake D Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Hi! I'm Blake D. Osborne, L.C.S.W. I am mainly doing Telehealth but can meet in person when necessary in the Skokie/Glenview area. I have over twenty-five years experience. I enjoy what I do! I am easy-going, flexible, accepting and down-to-earth. I use research-supported methods. Specialties: Kids and Teens, including ADHD, anger, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, homework, learning issues, OCD, panic, social skills, toileting. Adults: Mood issues, relationship problems, work issues, and grief. My goal: to make progress simply and efficiently. You should see some change in five-ten sessions.
Hi! I'm Blake D. Osborne, L.C.S.W. I am mainly doing Telehealth but can meet in person when necessary in the Skokie/Glenview area. I have over twenty-five years experience. I enjoy what I do! I am easy-going, flexible, accepting and down-to-earth. I use research-supported methods. Specialties: Kids and Teens, including ADHD, anger, anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, homework, learning issues, OCD, panic, social skills, toileting. Adults: Mood issues, relationship problems, work issues, and grief. My goal: to make progress simply and efficiently. You should see some change in five-ten sessions.
(847) 416-2689 View (847) 416-2689
Photo of Ashley Coleman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am interested in learning your story and providing a safe supported healing space for you.
Ashley’s therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered, using a combination of art therapy, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Emotion Focused Family Therapy, through a multicultural and trauma informed lens. Ashley specializes in anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, depression, general life stressors, and life transitions.
I am interested in learning your story and providing a safe supported healing space for you.
Ashley’s therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered, using a combination of art therapy, existential therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Emotion Focused Family Therapy, through a multicultural and trauma informed lens. Ashley specializes in anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, depression, general life stressors, and life transitions.
(312) 229-5317 View (312) 229-5317
Photo of Steven A Migalski, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Steven A Migalski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I also provide comprehensive psychological assessments for the differential diagnosis of ADHD and learning disorders, and I have been very successful in helping individuals receive accommodations in school and work settings.
In psychotherapy, I am a supportive listener who helps clients to uncover blind spots where difficulties lurk. I teach healthy coping strategies, and I coach people to try out new behaviors in their daily lives. I further help individuals, families, and couples to shore up inner resources to face life's challenges effectively and with a stronger sense of self-worth. I also guide individuals toward a better understanding of their feelings and emotional states. Finally, my approach focuses on breaking problematic interpersonal patterns and striving to be more autonomous and self-governing in one's day-to-day life.
I also provide comprehensive psychological assessments for the differential diagnosis of ADHD and learning disorders, and I have been very successful in helping individuals receive accommodations in school and work settings.
In psychotherapy, I am a supportive listener who helps clients to uncover blind spots where difficulties lurk. I teach healthy coping strategies, and I coach people to try out new behaviors in their daily lives. I further help individuals, families, and couples to shore up inner resources to face life's challenges effectively and with a stronger sense of self-worth. I also guide individuals toward a better understanding of their feelings and emotional states. Finally, my approach focuses on breaking problematic interpersonal patterns and striving to be more autonomous and self-governing in one's day-to-day life.
(773) 492-6780 View (773) 492-6780
Photo of Dr. Sarah Pekoc, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Sarah Pekoc
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I have a warm and empathic approach in which I empower individuals and families to develop a better understanding of relationships and behaviors while supporting them in learning new ways of coping.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
I have a warm and empathic approach in which I empower individuals and families to develop a better understanding of relationships and behaviors while supporting them in learning new ways of coping.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
(773) 492-6869 View (773) 492-6869
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.