Find an Educational Therapist

Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024
Written by the MiResource team

Learning shouldn’t feel like an uphill battle. But for many children and adults with learning disabilities, traditional teaching methods simply don’t work. Fortunately, an educational therapist can bridge that gap — offering customized support that empowers learners to thrive both academically and emotionally. Whether you’re a parent looking for help for your child or an adult seeking answers about your own struggles, understanding therapy for learning disabilities is a powerful first step.

  • Sandra Tursini, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Sandra Tursini

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    2409 South Rural Road, STE C, Tempe, Arizona 85282

    Sandra Tursini is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Burnout, Athletic Performance.

    Caring LPC with 30+ years’ expertise in diverse counseling areas, committed to recognizing individual worth and guiding clients through life's challenges

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  • Stacy Ross, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    Stacy Ross

    Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

    Remote only

    Stacy Ross is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 34 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Social Anxiety, Trichotillomania (hair pulling).

    We are highly trained clinicians who bring evidence-based treatment, infused with empathy and humor, to create a supportive and effective process.

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  • Laura Gualdoni, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

    Laura Gualdoni

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Academy of Certified Social Workers License (ACSW)

    8240 Embury Road, Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439

    Laura Gualdoni is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Grand Blanc, Michigan and has been in practice for 35 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Peer Difficulties, Anxiety.

    If you are struggling to cope with life challenges/difficulties both past & present, I can help you develop the skills and strategies to move forward.

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  • Carlin Anderson, Psychologist

    Carlin Anderson

    Psychologist, Sport Psychologist

    7401 Metro Boulevard, Edina, Minnesota 55424

    Carlin Anderson is a Psychologist in Edina, Minnesota and has been in practice for 20 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Peer Difficulties, Athletic Performance.

    Grounded in empathy and evidence-based interventions, we are 20+ sport psychology experts providing service & care to individuals, teams, & sport orgs.

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  • Bartholomew Brigidi, Neuropsychologist

    Bartholomew Brigidi

    Neuropsychologist, Psychotherapist

    1340 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27517

    Bartholomew Brigidi is a Neuropsychologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and has been in practice for 20 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

    Evals for ADHD, Learning Disorders, Autism & Acquired Brain Injuries (mTBI). Bio/neurofeedback. Treatments for med leave, stress, trauma & burnout.

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  • Margaret Bester, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Margaret Bester

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    7633 Ganser Way, Madison, Wisconsin 53719

    Margaret Bester is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Madison, Wisconsin and has been in practice for 21 years. They treat Learning Disorder, Trauma, Infertility.

    Current availability, all identities welcome, experienced and passionate professionals working with a variety of diagnosis' and symptoms.

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What is a learning disability, and how is it different from a general learning difficulty?

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.


What are the most common types of learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia)?

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.


What are the early signs that a child might have a learning disability?

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.


How is dyslexia different from other learning disorders?

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.


Can a child have more than one learning disability at the same time?

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.

Find care for Learning Disorder

Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Learning Disorder and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.

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