What Are the Different Types of Learning Disability Services?

Different types of learning disability services include assessment services, educational programs, and occupational therapy. In addition, many universities and workplaces offer specific assistance to students and employees who have learning disabilities. Depending on the availability of learning disability services in a particular jurisdiction, individuals may be able to seek out a valuation services that can assist them in determining whether they or their children have a learning disability. Once diagnosed, a person may be able to receive special assistance in managing his or her condition and learn adaptive strategies for succeeding in school, work, and life. Learning disability services available on university campuses may help students advocate for themselves within the university systems and assist in the development of accommodations that will allow them to succeed in academic studies.

A learning disability is a condition that causes an individual to process information differently than others. As a result, he or she may have difficulty learning life skills as well as academics without specific interventions. In many cases, a person with a learning disability has normal or even high intelligence, but the learning disability may impede his or her ability to perform effectively in school.

One of the most important types of learning disability services is learning disability evaluation and assessment. In many schools, teachers are trained to identify possible signs of a learning disability so that children can be referred to a learning disabilities specialist. The specialist can perform a variety of tests and assessments to determine whether the child has a learning disability. If the child does have a learning disability, he or she can be provided with supportive services to maximize his or her potential.

Adults who suspect they may have a learning disability may find it more difficult to receive an appropriate assessment. There are, however, some psychologists and educators who specialize in the evaluation of adults for learning disabilities. Although the adult will not be receiving ongoing learning disability services through school, he may be able to enroll or participate in a program for learning disabled adults in his community. He may also be able to work with an occupational therapist who can help him learn strategies for effectively performing job tasks and being able to earn a living. Adults who wish to pursue higher education may also be able to take advantage of learning disability services offered by the school as well as policies that require professors to offer accommodations, such as additional time to complete exams, to learning disabled students.