What is a Learning Disability?

People with Learning Disabilities have difficulty in the way they take in, remember, make sense of, or communicate information; they may have particular difficulty with reading, writing, or mathematics.

Although they may have above average intelligence, they often have to work harder than others to succeed in school or work. As a result, many come to believe they are unintelligent or lazy, develop low self-confidence, and do not achieve their potential.

People with Learning Disabilities may also have other conditions, such as Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Why consider Learning Disability assessment?

By better understanding their abilities, people can achieve greater control over their lives, and so improve their self-esteem and emotional health.

A Learning Disability Assessment can:

• Help individuals, their teachers, and their parents better understand their learning style and unique pattern of abilities
• Help people make career and educational choices that make best use of their strengths
• Provide practical suggestions for coping with relative weaknesses
• Provide recommendations for workplace modifications
• Provide diagnoses of specific Learning Disabilities
• Determine eligibility for federal grants for equipment and support services; Click Here
• Determine eligibility for educational accommodations, such as note-takers, extra time on examinations, and modified programs

How are Learning Disabilities assessed?

Assessments are performed by Registered Psychologists, who usually have a doctoral degree and specialized training in interpreting psychological tests and diagnosing learning disability. They may also be performed by Certified School Psychologists.

A Learning Disability Assessment usually consists of:

• An initial interview
• Tests of ability, information processing and academic achievement
• A feedback interview, where test results and professional recommendations are explained in clear, jargon-free language, and opportunity is provided to ask questions.

A detailed report is provided. Information from the assessment is kept confidential.

Are Learning Disability assessments covered by health insurance?

Services by Registered Psychologists, including Learning Disability Assessments, are not covered by basic medical insurance in B.C., but are usually covered by extended health plans. Reimbursement for Learning Disability Assessments may be provided by a Learning Disability Assessment Bursury (Click Here)