Students will usually discover that they have a Learning Disability (LD) and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) when they are at school. A recommendation for assessment may be made by their teacher, principal, or Pediatrician. Sometimes a parent just “knows” that there is a problem (usually as they experience difficulty while doing homework with their child). Following a psycho-educational evaluation, the student may receive an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) from the school based on their strengths and weaknesses, as well as accommodations for tests, assignments and exams.
Adults who have finished school are often interested in why they have had academic difficulties or are presently experiencing attentional problems in a variety of life situations. Others begin to examine their own learning problems once their children have been diagnosed with LD or ADHD. This is especially true when they are contemplating returning to school, or are having current difficulties in the workplace or with relationships.
It can be very comforting and a positive experience for many people, especially adolescents and adults, to receive a diagnosis or an explanation for the difficulties that they have had throughout their lives. It can be the first step in finding the help that they need.
If you suspect a Learning Disability or ADHD and are interested in getting an evaluation, please see the Assessment Services Section of this website.