II. 2. It takes me twice as long to read assignments and I never have enough time to finish tests. Do you think I have a learning disability?

Maybe, but only an administration of psychoeducational tests such as the Woodcock-Johnson Psychoeducational Battery-III: Tests of Cognitive Ability and the Woodcock-Johnson Battery-III: Tests of Achievement in conjunction with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-III) can answer this question conclusively.

These tests must be given and interpreted by either a certified learning disabilities specialist or by a licensed psychologist. The clinician will be looking for significant strengths and weaknesses in various processing areas. For example, auditory skills may be highly developed, but visual analytical skill may be impaired. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, but students with learning disabilities experience marked or significant discrepancies between their cognitive and achievement profiles. In addition to specific testing, a summary of additional information such as birth and family history, developmental milestones and academic experience should also be included as part of a complete assessment.

Email Okie a question or comment!

II.  Screening, Testing, and Diagnosis

1. I’m ready to be evaluated for a possible LD.  How should I go about finding the right clinician for me?
2. It takes me twice as long to read assignments and I never have enough time to finish tests. Do you think I have a learning disability?
3. What happens if I get tested and find out I don't have an LD?
4. I'm a Writing Fellow and one of my clients has a problem with transitions and spelling. I think that she may have an undiagnosed LD. What should I do?
5. I'm a current Barnard student and would like to have an evaluation for a possible learning disability (LD) or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). It's so expensive. Who is responsible for paying for the evaluation?