What are Learning Disabilities?

Learning disabilities are neurologically-based processing disorders that interfere with a person’s ability to learn, understand, or use specific academic skills such as reading, writing, or mathematics. These challenges do not stem from intellectual disabilities, a lack of motivation, or inadequate teaching; instead, they arise from variations in brain structure or function.

Psychowellness Center, a leading mental health provider in West Delhi, offers specialized assessment and intervention for children and adults with learning disabilities. Their multidisciplinary team, including clinical psychologists, special educators, and therapists, provides evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs.

At the center, Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are among the primary tools used. These methods focus on improving core processing skills, building confidence, and enhancing academic performance.

Treatment

Remedial Education: Focused academic interventions targeting specific deficits
Special Education Services: In-class accommodations, one-on-one support, and resource room teaching
Speech and Language Therapy: Assists with communication issues
Behavioral Therapy: Builds coping strategies, improves motivation, and addresses frustration or low self-esteem
Technology-Aided Learning: Use of apps and assistive devices to support reading, writing, and math
Parent Training and Counseling: Guides parents on how to support their child at home and school

Assessments

Educational Assessments: Standardized academic tests identify skill gaps in reading, writing, and math
Psychoeducational Evaluations: Measure cognitive strengths and weaknesses using tools like WISC, WIAT, and Woodcock-Johnson tests
Clinical Interviews: Collect family, medical, and academic history
Observation: Monitor classroom behavior, learning style, and emotional responses
IQ-Achievement Discrepancy: Compare intellectual ability with actual performance
Diagnostic Manuals (DSM-5, ICD-10): Used by professionals for formal diagnosis
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Tailored strategies for learning support based on assessment results

Causes

Biological Factors

Neurological differences in brain structure or function
Irregularities in how the brain processes information

Genetic Factors

A family history of learning disabilities increases risk
Certain genetic disorders (e.g., Turner syndrome, fragile X syndrome) linked to learning issues

Environmental Factors

Prenatal exposure to alcohol, drugs, or toxins
Premature birth or low birth weight
Lead exposure or brain injury

Psychosocial Factors

Emotional trauma or lack of educational support may worsen symptoms
Poor instruction or an unsupportive learning environment

Signs and symptoms

Academic Symptoms

Difficulty with reading, writing, or math
Struggles with spelling, handwriting, or organizing thoughts
Poor memory retention for instructions or lessons
Slow processing speed during tasks
Problems with sequencing, time management, and attention

Behavioural Symptoms

Avoidance of schoolwork or homework
Frequent frustration with academic tasks
Inconsistent performance in school
Low self-esteem and fear of failure
Behavioral issues such as acting out or withdrawing

Social/Emotional Symptoms

Difficulty understanding social cues
Anxiety related to school or learning tasks
Feelings of shame, embarrassment, or depression
Challenges in forming peer relationships

Types

Types of Learning Disabilities

Dyslexia: Impacts reading and language comprehension; symptoms may involve difficulties in word recognition, spelling challenges, and a slower reading pace.

Dyscalculia: Affects mathematical abilities; signs include difficulty understanding numbers, doing calculations, or grasping math concepts.

Dysgraphia: This impacts handwriting and written expression; symptoms include illegible writing, poor spelling, and trouble organizing thoughts on paper.

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD): Difficulty processing sounds; may lead to misunderstandings or difficulty following verbal instructions.

Visual Processing Disorder: Trouble interpreting visual information, affecting reading, math, and spatial awareness.

Nonverbal Learning Disabilities (NVLD): Strong verbal skills but poor motor coordination, visual-spatial organization, and social skills.

How Therapy Works

Therapy at Psychowellness Center empowers individuals with learning disabilities to maximize their potential. It includes:

Goal-Oriented Plans: Developing academic, social, and emotional goals
Skill Building: Enhancing memory, attention, processing speed, and executive function
Self-Worth and Drive: Fostering a growth-oriented mindset and an affirmative self-image
Family Involvement: Helping families understand the disability and support progress
Regular Monitoring: Tracking improvement and adjusting strategies accordingly
Resilience Building: Teaching adaptive skills and confidence to face academic challenges

Through expert assistance and ongoing support, individuals with learning disabilities can achieve successful and rewarding lives.

LEARNING DISABILITIES