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A learning disability is a neurologically-based condition that interferes with specific cognitive processes related to learning. People with learning disabilities may struggle with reading, writing, math, or processing information, despite having average or above-average intelligence.

By contrast, a learning difficulty might stem from external factors such as lack of quality instruction, emotional stress, or being new to a language. Learning difficulties are often temporary or situational, while learning disabilities are lifelong but manageable.

An educational therapist helps distinguish between the two and offers individualized strategies for students who need more than just extra practice or tutoring. Therapy for learning disabilities focuses not only on academic skills but also on building confidence, resilience, and executive functioning.

Learning disabilities are diverse, and no two students experience them the same way. The most well-known types include:

• Dyslexia: A reading-based disorder involving difficulty with decoding, fluency, and spelling. Contrary to popular belief, dyslexia isn’t about seeing letters backward — it’s about how the brain processes language.
• Dyscalculia: A math-based disorder that affects number sense, calculation, and mathematical reasoning. Students with dyscalculia may struggle with memorizing facts, telling time, or understanding quantities.
• Dysgraphia: A writing disorder that impacts handwriting, spelling, and written expression. It may involve poor motor skills or difficulty organizing thoughts on paper.
• Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders: These affect how the brain interprets sounds or visual information, despite normal hearing or vision.

Each of these challenges can be supported through therapy with a qualified educational therapist or learning disability therapist, often using evidence-based interventions tailored to the individual.

Early intervention can make a tremendous difference. Here are some red flags by age group:

Preschool (Ages 3–5)

• Trouble learning the alphabet or basic counting
• Delayed speech or difficulty rhyming
• Poor fine motor skills (e.g., holding a crayon)

Early Elementary (Ages 6–9)

• Avoiding reading aloud or doing homework
• Reversing letters (b/d, p/q) beyond age 7
• Struggling with spelling, reading fluency, or math facts
• Problems following directions or remembering sequences

Later Grades (10+)

• Slow reading or writing despite strong oral skills
• Poor organization, time management, or test performance
• Behavioral issues linked to academic frustration

If these challenges persist despite consistent instruction, it may be time to consult with a learning disability therapist or educational psychologist for evaluation.

Dyslexia is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — learning disabilities. It affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. Individuals with dyslexia may have difficulty decoding words, reading fluently, spelling correctly, or understanding what they read.

Unlike dyscalculia (which affects math) or dysgraphia (which affects writing), dyslexia is a language-based disorder. It can range from mild to severe and often runs in families.

Working with a dyslexia therapist or educational therapist trained in structured literacy approaches (like Orton-Gillingham or Wilson) can make a significant difference. These therapies use multisensory techniques to teach phonics, spelling, and reading comprehension in a way that works with — not against — the dyslexic brain.

Yes, and it’s more common than you might think. A child might have dyslexia and dysgraphia, or dyscalculia along with an auditory processing disorder. These overlapping conditions are referred to as comorbid learning disabilities.

When multiple areas of learning are impacted, the challenges can compound. That’s why comprehensive assessment and therapy for learning disabilities must be individualized. An educational therapist can create an integrated plan that addresses each area of need while also supporting emotional resilience.