Specific Learning Disorder Evaluations & IEEs

A specific learning disorder or learning disability is a developmental disorder that causes an individual great difficulty in learning to read, write, or perform math problems. The diagnosis of a specific learning disorder is rarely given until a child is around 7 or 8 years of age, as many of the associated difficulties are a normal part of development in young children.

A specific learning disorder is something an individual is born with, and is something that can be treated once it has been identified. Comprehensive testing is the best-practice approach to identifying and treating specific learning disorders. Additionally, it is important to rule-out other causes that could contribute to limited academic skills; thus, comprehensive testing is required to make an accurate diagnosis of a specific learning disorder. At Spectrum, a specific learning disorder evaluation typically involves several hours of direct testing with the client (depending on age and level of functioning), and may include the following components:

A diagnostic interview with the parent/caregiver that includes developmental history and current concerns
A diagnostic clinical interview with the client
Intelligence testing
Academic testing in all areas of reading, written expression, and mathematics
Executive functioning
Phonological processing
Language screening
Learning and Memory
Social, emotional, and behavioral questionnaires completed by parents/caregivers, client, spouse, etc.
Input from teachers and review of curriculum-based measures, grades, and work samples
School observation (if applicable)
A comprehensive written report
An interactive feedback session with families to review the results & recommendations