Does your child struggle with reading, writing, or maths? If so, you may feel overwhelmed, unsure of how to guide them and support their success. Specific learning disorders (SLDs) can impact a child’s academic progress and self-esteem, but they shouldn’t define or limit their future.
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we specialise in comprehensive learning disorder assessments designed to identify the root of your child’s academic challenges and provide targeted support. From dyslexia to ADHD, our expert team ensures every child feels empowered to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. This blog gives you an in-depth overview of learning disorders, explains our step-by-step assessment process, and highlights why early intervention is so important.
Our Approach to Specific Learning Disorder Assessments
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we tailor our assessments to diagnose specific learning disorders, such as dyslexia (reading difficulties), dysgraphia (challenges with writing), and dyscalculia (difficulty with maths). Our team takes a holistic and compassionate approach, ensuring every child feels supported throughout the process.
Through interviews, testing, and expert analysis, we provide a comprehensive understanding of your child’s cognitive and academic profile. But we don’t stop there. We deliver tailored recommendations to help schools and families implement effective strategies to support your child.
Now, let’s explore what specific learning disorders are, their signs, and how we can help your child thrive.
What Are Specific Learning Disorders?
Specific learning disorders (SLDs) are neurodevelopmental conditions that impact key academic skills, including reading, writing, and maths. It’s essential to understand that SLDs have no connection to intelligence. A child with an SLD can be highly talented and capable in areas beyond academics.
Common Types of SLDs
- Dyslexia (Reading challenges): Difficulty decoding words, reading fluently, and understanding text.
- Dysgraphia (Writing challenges): Struggles with handwriting, spelling, and organising ideas on paper.
- Dyscalculia (Math challenges): Difficulty grasping numbers, performing calculations, and solving problems.
SLDs often occur alongside other conditions like ADHD or attention difficulties, making an accurate diagnosis critical to develop effective interventions.
Recognising the Signs of Learning Disorders
Wondering if your child might have an SLD? Keep an eye out for these common signs:
- Struggles significantly in reading, writing, or maths compared to their peers.
- Persistent difficulty with spelling or letter formation.
- Trouble following step-by-step instructions.
- Avoidance of tasks that involve reading, writing, or calculations.
- Difficulty understanding maths concepts, equations, or sequences.
Remember, every child is unique, and early detection is key to ensuring they receive the right support for their individual needs.
Why Educational Assessments Matter
An educational assessment goes beyond identifying learning disorders. It lays the foundation for understanding how your child learns and provides actionable insights to improve their academic experience.
Key Benefits of a Thorough Learning Assessment
- Identifies Individual Needs
An assessment evaluates your child’s strengths and weaknesses, helping parents and teachers understand challenges like dyslexia or ADHD more clearly.
- Personalised Support
A diagnosis enables schools to offer tailored interventions and accommodations like extra time in exams, assistive technology, or one-on-one support sessions.
- Confidence Building
Focused support helps children recognise their abilities and build self-esteem, reducing frustration around schoolwork.
- Long-Term Growth
The right strategies empower children to excel not only academically but also socially and emotionally, setting them up for long-term success.
Our Assessment Process
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we have designed a comprehensive process to ensure no part of your child’s learning and development is overlooked. Here’s how we work with families to uncover the answers they need.
Step 1. Intake Call
Your first contact with us is a friendly and relaxed call with our Client Concierge, Candy Elliot, who has experience in psychotherapy. Candy will walk you through the process, answer initial questions, and guide you toward the next steps.
Step 2. Clinical Interview
You will then meet online with one of our psychologists for an in-depth parent interview. We’ll discuss your child’s history, current challenges, academic performance, and medical reports, ensuring we fully understand their unique learning profile.
Step 3. Psychometric and Child Testing
Our psychologists evaluate your child’s abilities through structured assessments. These may include:
- Cognitive Ability Tests to measure reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.
- Academic Performance Tests that assess strengths and weaknesses in reading, writing, and maths.
- Executive Function Assessments to measure focus, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
- Social and Emotional Assessments that identify behavioural or emotional factors like those associated with ADHD.
Step 4. Analysis and Comprehensive Report
We compile all insights into a clear, actionable report, including a diagnosis (if applicable) and tailored strategies for school, home, and personal growth. This report helps set a roadmap for your child’s educational success.
Step 5. Feedback Session
Finally, our team conducts a comprehensive feedback session, walking parents through the assessment results in a supportive and approachable manner. You’ll leave the session ready to take actionable next steps for your child’s success.
Going Beyond the Diagnosis
We don’t just stop at assessments. We’re here to help families implement meaningful changes to keep your child moving forward. Our recommendations include support strategies for teachers and parents, tips for a better learning environment, and even referrals for additional therapies where needed.
Our goal is simple: to give every child the tools and confidence they need to thrive.
Helping Your Child Flourish
Every child deserves an education tailored to their needs. With the right support, a learning disorder can transform from a challenge into an opportunity to develop resilience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
At Adelaide Clinical Psychology, we’re passionate about helping families identify and celebrate their children’s unique abilities. Through compassionate assessments and evidence-based recommendations, we guide children and families toward a brighter future.
If you think your child might benefit from a learning disorder assessment, contact us today. Together, we’ll uncover the strengths and potential within your child and show them that learning differences don’t define their abilities.
Book Your Consultation Today