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Testing for learning disorders in Edmonton
If you or someone you know is struggling with a learning challenges, testing for specific learning disorders may be beneficial.
December 14th 2023 / Assessments / By Randall Symes
Learning Disorders: What They Are And How They Are Diagnosed
If you or someone you know is struggling with a learning challenges, testing for specific learning disorders may be beneficial. At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we understand the challenges that come with learning disorders and offer comprehensive assessments to help identify and understand these difficulties. Our team of experienced psychologists is dedicated to providing accurate and reliable testing to children, adolescents, and adults in Alberta.
Our learning disorders testing in Edmonton is designed to evaluate a range of learning difficulties, including dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia.
Our assessments involve a thorough review of the individual’s medical and educational history, as well as a comprehensive evaluation of your cognitive abilities, academic skills, and social-emotional functioning. Our goal is to provide the individual with a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and to develop a personalized intervention plan to help them overcome any challenges they may be facing.
At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. If you or someone you know is struggling with learning disorders, we are here to help.
Understanding Learning Disorders
If someone you know is struggling with learning, it is important to understand that learning disorders are real and can have a significant impact on academic, social, and emotional functioning. Learning disorders are neurological conditions that affect the brain’s ability to process information effectively. These conditions can affect various areas of learning, including reading, writing, math, and language.
Some common types of learning disorders include:
- Dyslexia: A learning disorder that affects reading and language processing.
- Dyscalculia: A learning disorder that affects math processing.
- Dysgraphia: A learning disorder that affects writing and fine motor skills.
If you suspect that someone you know may have a learning disorder, it’s important to seek a professional assessment from a qualified psychologist. At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we offer comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational assessments to diagnose learning disorders and provide recommendations for support and intervention.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of learning disorders is crucial for children’s academic success and overall well-being. As a parent, you play a critical role in identifying the early signs of learning disorders in your child. Here are some reasons why early detection is important:
- Early intervention: Early detection of learning disorders allows for early intervention, which is essential for improving your child’s academic performance and self-esteem. Early intervention can help your child learn strategies to manage their learning difficulties and improve their academic skills.
- Prevention of secondary problems: Learning disorders can lead to secondary problems such as anxiety, depression, and behavioural issues. Early detection and intervention can prevent these secondary problems from developing or becoming more severe.
- Improved social skills: Children with learning disorders may struggle with social skills, which can lead to social isolation and low self-esteem. Early detection and intervention can help your child develop social skills and build meaningful relationships with peers.
- Better academic outcomes: Early detection and intervention can help your child achieve academic success and reach their full potential. With the right support, children with learning disorders can thrive academically and pursue their goals.
Early detection of learning disorders is essential for your child’s academic success, social well-being, and overall quality of life. If you suspect that your child may have a learning disorder, it’s important to seek professional help from a qualified psychologist. At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we offer psychological/psychoeducational assessments and counselling services to children, adolescents, and adults in Alberta. We are committed to helping individuals with learning disorders reach their full potential.
Learning Disorders Testing in Edmonton
If you suspect that your child may have a learning disorder, seeking a psychological assessment can provide valuable insights and guidance. At Randall Symes Psychological Services, our team of experienced psychologists offers comprehensive psychoeducational assessments to help identify and diagnose learning disorders.
During the assessment process, you or your child will meet with one of our psychologists for an initial consultation, where we will discuss your concerns and gather information about your medical and educational history. We will also conduct a series of standardized tests and assessments to evaluate cognitive, academic, and behavioral functioning.
Types of Tests
At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we use a variety of tests and assessments to evaluate different aspects of learning and behavior. Some of the most common tests we use include:
- Intelligence tests: These tests measure cognitive abilities such as reasoning, problem-solving, and memory.
- Academic achievement tests: These tests assess skills in areas such as reading, writing, and math.
- Behavioral assessments: These evaluations measure social and emotional functioning, including attention, hyperactivity, and anxiety.
Our psychologists will carefully select the tests and assessments that are most appropriate for your individual needs and concerns. We will also provide you with a detailed report of our findings, along with recommendations for treatment and support.
If you or your child is struggling with a learning disorder, do not hesitate to seek help. Contact Randall Symes Psychological Services today to schedule a psychoeducational assessment and start on the path to better understanding and support.
Choosing the Right Professional
Credentials and Experience
Look for a professional who has the appropriate credentials and experience in diagnosing learning disorders. Psychologists, neuropsychologists, and educational psychologists are professionals who are trained and qualified to diagnose learning disorders. It is crucial to check their credentials and experience to ensure that they have the necessary qualifications and experience to conduct the testing.
Assessment Process
Cost and Insurance
Comfort and Rapport
Preparation for Testing
When you schedule a learning disorders testing assessment at Randall Symes Psychological Services, you will receive a comprehensive intake package that includes a detailed history form. This form will provide us with important information about your background, educational and medical history, and current concerns.
It is important that you complete the history form as accurately and thoroughly as possible. This information will help us to understand your unique situation and tailor the assessment to meet your needs.
In addition to the history form, we may also request that you provide us with any relevant medical or educational records, such as previous assessments, report cards, or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
During the assessment, the individual will be asked to complete a variety of tasks that may include standardized tests, questionnaires, and interviews.
Overall, the goal of the assessment is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the person’s strengths and weaknesses, and to identify any learning disorders that may be impacting your academic or personal success. By being prepared and engaged in the assessment process, you can help us to provide you and your child with the most accurate and helpful results possible.
Interpreting the Results
After completing the learning disorder testing, you will receive a comprehensive report that outlines the results of the assessment and any diagnoses that may be supported.
The report will include information on cognitive abilities, academic skills, and social-emotional functioning. The results will be presented in a clear and concise manner. A diagnosis will be made when supported by the test results.
You may notice that some areas of the individual’s performance are below average, while others are above average. This is normal and expected, as everyone has their own unique profile of strengths and weaknesses. It is important to focus on the strengths and use them to compensate for areas of weakness.
If a learning disorder is identified, the report will provide specific recommendations for accommodations and interventions that can help the individual succeed academically and socially. These recommendations may include things like extended time on tests, preferential seating in the classroom, or specialized tutoring.
It is important to discuss the results of the assessment with a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or educational specialist. They can help you and your child understand the implications of the results and develop a plan to address any areas of concern.
Overall, the results of the learning disorder testing are a valuable tool for understanding the individual’s unique profile of strengths and weaknesses. With the right support and accommodations, they can achieve their full potential and succeed in all areas of life.
Post-Testing Support and Resources
After completing the learning disorder testing, you will receive a comprehensive report that outlines the results of the assessment and provides recommendations for support and interventions, most often for home and schools. At Randall Symes Psychological Services, we understand that receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Our team of psychologists is available to answer any questions you may have about the testing process or the results of the assessment. We can help you understand the implications of the diagnosis and provide guidance on next steps. We can also provide referrals to other professionals or services that may be able to assist you further.
In addition to our support, there are many resources available to help individuals with learning disorders. These resources may include:
- Educational support: Schools may offer accommodations or modifications to help students with learning disorders succeed in the classroom. Our team can work with you to communicate with your child’s school and advocate for the support they need.
- Therapy and counseling: Therapy can help individuals with learning disorders develop coping strategies and improve their self-esteem. Our team offers counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults.
- Assistive technology: There are many technological tools available to help individuals with learning disorders. These may include text-to-speech software, speech-to-text software, and apps designed to improve executive functioning skills.
- Support groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can be a valuable source of support. There are many support groups available for individuals with learning disorders and their families.
We understand that the process of testing and counselling can be overwhelming, but we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team is committed to providing you with a comfortable and confidential environment, where you can feel safe to explore your concerns.
Schedule an Assessment
Contact us to make an appointment
To address your child’s challenges, our tailored psychological assessments provide the information needed to get your child on the right path.
Parents and caregivers do not need a referral from a physician to make an appointment. Please contact us now to get started.