Learning disabilities
- 1. Presented By: Janice Chisholm-Briand, M.A.S, L. Psych & Sara Osborne, M. A., L. Psych.
- 2. What is a Learning Disability? There is specific criteria that needs to be met for a diagnosis of a Learning Disability. The individual has to have average to above average intelligence. Individual achieves below what would be expected based on their ability. Some evidence of specific processing difficulties that explains the underachievement (e.g. deficits in working memory, phonological processing, visual processing, etc).
- 3. Who makes the diagnosis of a Learning Disability? Only a Licensed Psychologist can diagnose a Learning Disability. Other professionals may identify characteristics and provide supporting data.
- 4. When should you consider getting an Psychological Assessment? Your child is struggling in one or more academic areas for at least 2 years Child’s difficulties can not otherwise be explained by factors such as high absenteeism, trauma, adjustment difficulties, hearing or vision problems, etc. Child is still struggling despite extra supports and interventions (e.g. tutoring, extra help, resource, classroom accommodations, etc). Assessment results increase in reliability after age 8 (grade 3) and this allows for sufficient time to see if children respond to interventions.
- 5. What does an LD assessment look like? There may be different terms used to describe an assessment such as Psychoeducational Assessment, Learning Assessment or Psychological Assessment. This a very specific, comprehensive type of assessment completed by a Psychologist. Assessments can be a lengthy process that take approximately 15-20 hours to complete. This includes gathering a developmental history (parent interviews, teacher reports, previous assessment), individual testing, scoring, report writing, sharing of the results and recommendations with parents and schools.
- 6. Where do I go to get an LD assessment completed? School: Talk to your child’s teacher. Each school has their own school based team. They will be able to determine if your child is a candidate for an assessment and the length of time you may need to wait to access this service. Private Psychologist: The recommended fee from the College of Psychologists is $150/hr. There is a range of fees offered by Psychologists in the community. Families can access coverage through medical insurance and/or EAP. Medical coverage can be discussed with the Psychologist to determine how this can be most beneficial to meet your individual needs.
- 7. Can the Assessment look at more than just a Learning Disability? YES! During the initial parent meeting, it may be decided that it would be helpful to explore other factors such as ADHD, ODD, anxiety, depression, etc.
- 8. What is the benefit of a Psychological Assessment? It can provide a diagnosis. A diagnosis can entitle your child to more support (classroom accommodations, formal SEP, assistive technology, disability tax credit and intervention support). It can provide a greater understanding of your child’s strengths and challenges. It can generate appropriate intervention strategies and supports. It can foster greater academic success, self esteem, parent- child relationships and educational opportunities.
- 9. Are there any disadvantages to having an LD diagnosis? Some parents worry about their child being labeled. However, without a proper diagnosis, your child may be mislabeled and not receive the most effective supports to maximize their true potential.
- 10. More Questions? There will be a question and answer period at the end of the presentation. For additional information, you also contact us directly: Janice Chisholm-Briand 850-8250 or janice.briand@bellaliant.net Sara Osborne 874-2731 or sara0@rogers.com