One of the many clinical services we provide at the Counseling Center is screenings for learning disabilities (LDs).

Students may experience difficulties in learning such as retention of information, problems taking certain types of exams, being easily distracted, or generally feeling overwhelmed regardless of how much time they spend studying. Often these challenges can be explained by overload of course work, interference of other problems and stressors such as anxiety, or even "a slump". However, the source of the difficulties may be a learning disability.

A learning disability (LD) is defined as a disorder in one or more of the processes needed to understand use spoken or written language and that negatively affects a person’s ability to express themselves, think clearly, write, spell, read, or perform math. The most common types of LDS are reading, mathematics, writing, and nonverbal. However, learning difficulties that are from the effects of hearing, motor, visual, emotional concerns, cultural opportunities, financial challenges are not considered learning disorders. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder often results in learning problems but is not considered an LD. (IDEA, 2004).

Many serious learning problems are discovered and help is provided in earlier grades. You may have been previously “tested” (or “evaluated”) for and “coded” with an LD, which is a designation made in most public schools to indicate a need for extra assistance from a specialist, or in order to obtain extra resources, as in a resource room or one-on-one tutoring, or additional time for testing.

However, sometimes individuals with learning problems learn to compensate; they "get by" and are not noticed as having challenges. When those individuals find themselves confronted by the volume and depth of college level work they often become overwhelmed, discouraged, and frustrated. Though they work very hard, their grades don't reflect that effort. They may observe that others around them study less but have better results or another family member may have had an LD.

Students who come to the Counseling Center may be self-referred or come because others (e.g., friends, family, faculty) have encouraged them to seek assistance. The first step is to  have request an intake. An intake is an interview with a counselor that provides the opportunity for students to get information and ask questions. The information gathered during the intake may indicate that testing for a LD would helpful. The next step might be a referral to someone outside the Counseling Center who could better meet the needs of the individual.

Because of the high demand for screenings and our lengthy waiting list, we have a cancellation/no show policy. If you cancel your screening without giving us 48 hours advance notice or do not show up for your appointment, you will be placed at the end of the current list. The evaluations generally consist of tests that are used to measure your verbal, nonverbal, memory and academic skills.

For more information on or help with LDs click here