Education and Learning Disabilities Therapists in Randallstown, MD

Photo of Latasha D McFarland (Harrison), Counselor, LGPC, EdD
Latasha D McFarland (Harrison)
Counselor, LGPC, EdD
Randallstown, MD 21133
I believe people are shaped in relationships, hurt in relationships, and ultimately healed through relationships. Whether you are feeling disconnected from your partner, overwhelmed by life transitions, grieving a loss, navigating the challenges of parenthood, or trying to rediscover yourself after heartbreak, therapy can become a space where healing, clarity, and transformation begin. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in creating emotional safety. I help clients slow down, understand the deeper patterns beneath conflict or emotional pain, and learn new ways of communicating, connecting, and caring for themselves and ot
I believe people are shaped in relationships, hurt in relationships, and ultimately healed through relationships. Whether you are feeling disconnected from your partner, overwhelmed by life transitions, grieving a loss, navigating the challenges of parenthood, or trying to rediscover yourself after heartbreak, therapy can become a space where healing, clarity, and transformation begin. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in creating emotional safety. I help clients slow down, understand the deeper patterns beneath conflict or emotional pain, and learn new ways of communicating, connecting, and caring for themselves and ot
(410) 538-1341 View (410) 538-1341
Photo of Nicole L Macri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Nicole L Macri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Serves Area
Over the last 25 years, I have worked with children, adolescents & adults in a variety of settings. I recognize that in order to effectively work with anyone of any age you have to engage the client where they are at. I realize that it is important to understand culture, upbringing, parenting styles, essentially the world that the client lives in, in order to truly be empathetic to a person's issues and life challenges.
Over the last 25 years, I have worked with children, adolescents & adults in a variety of settings. I recognize that in order to effectively work with anyone of any age you have to engage the client where they are at. I realize that it is important to understand culture, upbringing, parenting styles, essentially the world that the client lives in, in order to truly be empathetic to a person's issues and life challenges.
(443) 398-3430 View (443) 398-3430
Photo of Akintunde Morakinyo - GIFTS Mental Health, Psychologist, MA, LGPC, LCPC, PhD
GIFTS Mental Health
Psychologist, MA, LGPC, LCPC, PhD
Serves Area
Unwrap your potential today! Since 2006 GIFTS has been served Baltimore County as a clinic that meets the needs of children, adults and families. Our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, accessible, and culturally-responsive services
Unwrap your potential today! Since 2006 GIFTS has been served Baltimore County as a clinic that meets the needs of children, adults and families. Our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, accessible, and culturally-responsive services
(443) 819-1043 View (443) 819-1043
Photo of David Michael Toplin - Tree of Life Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Tree of Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Serves Area
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
Our team of experienced male and female therapists provide counseling to children, adolescents, couples and families of all ages. Many of our clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, serious relationship conflict, a trauma disorder or a child's behavior problem and often find it difficult coping day to day. The therapeutic process is liberating once begun, indeed it is life-transforming. Trust that you will emerge stronger and more self-aware now able to reclaim that special, essential "You", that you always knew was there but couldn't quite seem to get in touch with. Start your therapy journey today!
(410) 343-7146 View (410) 343-7146

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Dumler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Mary Dumler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging, and it’s not always easy to navigate those challenges alone. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking for tools to live a more fulfilling life, therapy can be a space to explore, grow, and heal. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the knowledge that you are the expert in you. Together, we’ll explore your unique experiences, clarify your values and strengths, and work toward meaningful change. I draw from evidence-based practices, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Life can be challenging, and it’s not always easy to navigate those challenges alone. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking for tools to live a more fulfilling life, therapy can be a space to explore, grow, and heal. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the knowledge that you are the expert in you. Together, we’ll explore your unique experiences, clarify your values and strengths, and work toward meaningful change. I draw from evidence-based practices, including acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
(240) 623-5667 View (240) 623-5667
Photo of Victoria L. Little, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-C, BCN
Victoria L. Little
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-C, BCN
Fallston, MD 21047
Finding good care these days is almost impossible or so it feels that way! Traditional treatment approaches offer little relief; there is poor collaboration between practitioners who treat you and visits with psychiatrists and other MD's are as short as 15 minutes on average with the practitioners often having no clue what your medical records or needs are. If you find the care you have received falls short, and are sick of being on psychiatric drug cocktails with little relief, as well as creating a chemical lobotomy & brain damage from the use of these medications, then you should make a change for the better and give me a call.
Finding good care these days is almost impossible or so it feels that way! Traditional treatment approaches offer little relief; there is poor collaboration between practitioners who treat you and visits with psychiatrists and other MD's are as short as 15 minutes on average with the practitioners often having no clue what your medical records or needs are. If you find the care you have received falls short, and are sick of being on psychiatric drug cocktails with little relief, as well as creating a chemical lobotomy & brain damage from the use of these medications, then you should make a change for the better and give me a call.
(410) 387-9823 View (410) 387-9823
Photo of Christina Knepper - Evolve Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Evolve Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Online Only
Hi, thanks for stopping by. I specialize in helping parents and families understand and support their neurodivergent children, teens, and adult children. I'm also passionate about guiding adults navigate the profound identity shift and self-doubt that comes with suspecting or receiving a late-in-life diagnosis of Autism, ADHD, coupled with anxiety, depression, and mood dysregulation. Individual therapeutic services are available to young adults navigating critical transitions, like college or the workforce. I also specialize in working with career moms and the challenges that present at all stages of motherhood.
Hi, thanks for stopping by. I specialize in helping parents and families understand and support their neurodivergent children, teens, and adult children. I'm also passionate about guiding adults navigate the profound identity shift and self-doubt that comes with suspecting or receiving a late-in-life diagnosis of Autism, ADHD, coupled with anxiety, depression, and mood dysregulation. Individual therapeutic services are available to young adults navigating critical transitions, like college or the workforce. I also specialize in working with career moms and the challenges that present at all stages of motherhood.
(443) 706-8859 View (443) 706-8859
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Baltimore, MD 21230
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
(410) 648-9569 View (410) 648-9569
Photo of Dr. Lauren Siegel, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Lauren Siegel
Psychologist, PsyD
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to high quality psychotherapy and neuropsychological testing services to families in the DMV area.
I have over 15 years of experience doing psychotherapy and neuropsychological evaluations both in schools and in outpatient settings. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual, and I include play, cognitive-behavioral tools, family work, and relational techniques.
I am a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to high quality psychotherapy and neuropsychological testing services to families in the DMV area.
I have over 15 years of experience doing psychotherapy and neuropsychological evaluations both in schools and in outpatient settings. My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual, and I include play, cognitive-behavioral tools, family work, and relational techniques.
(301) 321-7889 x102 View (301) 321-7889 x102
Photo of Dr. Temima Schwartz - Dr. Temima Schwartz - Psychoeducational Assessment, Psychological Associate, PhD
Dr. Temima Schwartz - Psychoeducational Assessment
Psychological Associate, PhD
Baltimore, MD 21209
I provide psychoeducational evaluations that give families a clear picture of their child’s learning profile.
Each evaluation includes a parent intake, several hours of individualized testing with the child, a detailed written report, and a feedback session to review results. With both a PhD in psychology and a master’s in special education, as well as personal experience as a parent, I bring insight that is both thorough and real-world.
I provide psychoeducational evaluations that give families a clear picture of their child’s learning profile.
Each evaluation includes a parent intake, several hours of individualized testing with the child, a detailed written report, and a feedback session to review results. With both a PhD in psychology and a master’s in special education, as well as personal experience as a parent, I bring insight that is both thorough and real-world.
(443) 339-9468 View (443) 339-9468
Photo of Kerry Mahony Shea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Kerry Mahony Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Timonium, MD 21093
I'm interested in learning about you, your interests, and what makes you, you.
Accepting new clients and have afternoon and evening availability! I enjoy working with teens and their families as well as young adults. I specialize in therapy with adolescents (13+), college students, families, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, life transitions, or just seeking support, please reach out! I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). I also am able to provide clinical supervision for other therapists working towards their clinical license.
I'm interested in learning about you, your interests, and what makes you, you.
Accepting new clients and have afternoon and evening availability! I enjoy working with teens and their families as well as young adults. I specialize in therapy with adolescents (13+), college students, families, and young adults from diverse backgrounds. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, life transitions, or just seeking support, please reach out! I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR and SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). I also am able to provide clinical supervision for other therapists working towards their clinical license.
(410) 680-3420 View (410) 680-3420
Photo of John Hite, PsyD, MEd, NCSP
John Hite
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hite brings over 16 years of experience as a school psychologist, specializing in psychological and educational services for children and families with complex developmental, learning, and emotional needs.
Consultations focus on understanding concerns related to children's learning, development, and behavior. His evaluations are often used to guide treatment and educational decisions. He supports parents navigating the special education system, as well as families pursuing services through public and private schools or specialized therapeutic placements.
Hite brings over 16 years of experience as a school psychologist, specializing in psychological and educational services for children and families with complex developmental, learning, and emotional needs.
Consultations focus on understanding concerns related to children's learning, development, and behavior. His evaluations are often used to guide treatment and educational decisions. He supports parents navigating the special education system, as well as families pursuing services through public and private schools or specialized therapeutic placements.
(240) 863-2618 View (240) 863-2618
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Towson, MD 21204
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
(443) 339-8319 View (443) 339-8319
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
(240) 901-9489 View (240) 901-9489
Photo of Jillian M Diesner, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Jillian M Diesner
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Bethesda, MD 20814
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children, families, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, Tourette's and tic disorders, and suspected or confirmed learning disabilities.
I help my clients by providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), among others. My practice is unique because I have worked in public schools for 20+ years and understand both the parent and school perspectives.
I specialize in working with children, families, adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, Tourette's and tic disorders, and suspected or confirmed learning disabilities.
I help my clients by providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), among others. My practice is unique because I have worked in public schools for 20+ years and understand both the parent and school perspectives.
(301) 235-8449 View (301) 235-8449
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Columbia, MD 21046
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
(301) 321-8719 View (301) 321-8719
Photo of Vanessa Scarborough, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Vanessa Scarborough
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
2 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093
Scarborough has extensive experience providing evaluations for AD/HD, executive functioning difficulties, emotional and behavioral concerns, social challenges, and learning differences (e.g., dyslexia) across childhood and young adulthood.
Dr. Scarborough is a licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified pediatric neuropsychologist who provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults for a range of clinical and diagnostic concerns, as well as adults seeking evaluations for developmental disability (DDA) services. Evaluations identify an individual’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses to guide diagnosis and recommendations. Following an evaluation, families and individuals gain a clearer understanding of cognitive functioning and practical tools to support daily, academic, and functional needs.
Scarborough has extensive experience providing evaluations for AD/HD, executive functioning difficulties, emotional and behavioral concerns, social challenges, and learning differences (e.g., dyslexia) across childhood and young adulthood.
Dr. Scarborough is a licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified pediatric neuropsychologist who provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults for a range of clinical and diagnostic concerns, as well as adults seeking evaluations for developmental disability (DDA) services. Evaluations identify an individual’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses to guide diagnosis and recommendations. Following an evaluation, families and individuals gain a clearer understanding of cognitive functioning and practical tools to support daily, academic, and functional needs.
(410) 983-6510 View (410) 983-6510
Photo of Mara Egorin-Williams, Psychological Associate, RPA
Mara Egorin-Williams
Psychological Associate, RPA
Bel Air, MD 21014
Waitlist for new clients
Main issues that I can offer support and help is with childhood and adolescent emotional, behavioral and learning needs.
As a clinician/therapist, my practice includes working with children and families, teens and adults. I specialize in all childhood/adolescent emotional, mental health, and behavioral needs (Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, DMDD). Adult therapeutic services include specialization with anxiety, mindfulness, depression, medical health diagnosis and acceptance, adult ADHD. Working with children in a private, clinical setting affords me the opportunity to learn about the child, the family structure and dynamic, and support the emotional, behavioral and social needs. I strongly believe in parent training to support the child's needs.
Main issues that I can offer support and help is with childhood and adolescent emotional, behavioral and learning needs.
As a clinician/therapist, my practice includes working with children and families, teens and adults. I specialize in all childhood/adolescent emotional, mental health, and behavioral needs (Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, DMDD). Adult therapeutic services include specialization with anxiety, mindfulness, depression, medical health diagnosis and acceptance, adult ADHD. Working with children in a private, clinical setting affords me the opportunity to learn about the child, the family structure and dynamic, and support the emotional, behavioral and social needs. I strongly believe in parent training to support the child's needs.
(443) 419-4337 View (443) 419-4337
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey S Garofano, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Jeffrey S Garofano
Psychologist, PhD
Baltimore, MD 21281
Are you concerned about learning, attention, or emotional functioning?
In addition to my clinical faculty role at Johns Hopkins, where I conduct hospital-based evaluations, I maintain a separate private practice focused specifically on school-related concerns. I specialize in comprehensive evaluations that provide families and schools with clear, actionable recommendations to support IEPs, 504 Plans, and academic success.
Are you concerned about learning, attention, or emotional functioning?
In addition to my clinical faculty role at Johns Hopkins, where I conduct hospital-based evaluations, I maintain a separate private practice focused specifically on school-related concerns. I specialize in comprehensive evaluations that provide families and schools with clear, actionable recommendations to support IEPs, 504 Plans, and academic success.
(443) 486-3587 View (443) 486-3587
Photo of Ashley Thorndike, Counselor, LGPC, C-SLDI
Ashley Thorndike
Counselor, LGPC, C-SLDI
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
Whether perfectionism, future pressure, social issues, or a present learning disability, I work with kids and their families to learn to tolerate and dissipate anxiety.
When we work together we'll collaborate to help you process, organize, and mobilize your life. My degrees include a MEd in Counseling and a PhD in Dance and my life revolves around connection: connections between us and within us. We will, in turn, explore the anxieties surrounding you right now and the conceptual and physical resources you can activate to manage and move through anxiety. I help people feel better by finding physical and mental balance and balancing is constant movement. My practice is supervised by Ronnie Biemans, LCPC.
Whether perfectionism, future pressure, social issues, or a present learning disability, I work with kids and their families to learn to tolerate and dissipate anxiety.
When we work together we'll collaborate to help you process, organize, and mobilize your life. My degrees include a MEd in Counseling and a PhD in Dance and my life revolves around connection: connections between us and within us. We will, in turn, explore the anxieties surrounding you right now and the conceptual and physical resources you can activate to manage and move through anxiety. I help people feel better by finding physical and mental balance and balancing is constant movement. My practice is supervised by Ronnie Biemans, LCPC.
(301) 321-7579 View (301) 321-7579

See more therapy options for Randallstown

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.