Learning Disability & Dyslexia Testing

At CPA, we offer learning disability and dyslexia testing for adults and children age 8 and older.

Learning disability and dyslexia testing, sometimes referred to as an educational evaluation, is essential for diagnosing learning problems, developing academic plans and obtaining academic accommodations.

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Estimates vary but studies suggest as many as 15% of the population have some form of language-based learning disability, with reading disorders (Dyslexia) being by far the most common.

Importantly, learning disorders are known to be the result of differences in the structure and functioning of the brain, and are not the result of low intelligence or laziness. In fact, those with learning disorders have normal intelligence and often work very hard to perform well academically.

While learning disabilities are often identified during childhood, many adults have learning disabilities that were never diagnosed and/or continue to struggle with learning disabilities that may have been diagnosed earlier in life. Adult dyslexia and learning disability diagnoses are becoming more common. In part, this is happening because of increasing awareness and because it’s now easier to identify neuropsychologists who test for dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

What are the most common types of learning disabilities?

Dyslexia (Reading)

Dyslexia is the most common learning disorder. It causes problems with language skills, particularly reading. People with dyslexia may read slowly, have difficulty comprehending what they read and struggle to recognize and/or spell words. There is not a single test for dyslexia – dyslexia testing is typically part of a larger psycho-educational evaluation or learning disability assessment.

Dysgraphia (Writing)

Dysgraphia refers to problems with handwriting. People with dysgraphia may have problems forming letters, writing within a defined space, and writing down their thoughts. Like dyslexia, testing for dysgraphia is usually one component of a larger psycho-educational evaluation.

Dyscalculia (Math)

Dyscalculia is a condition that results in problems with math. People with a math learning disability or disorder may have difficulty understanding arithmetic concepts and doing such tasks as addition, multiplication, and measuring. There are a number of math-related tests included in most learning disability evaluations.

Why is a learning disability evaluation or dyslexia testing needed?

The most important thing is to make the right diagnosis so that effective recommendations can be developed and implemented. Schools and colleges typically rely on diagnoses and recommendations to create academic plans to help students be more successful. Similarly, standardized testing companies often require documentation of ADHD and Learning Disabilities to receive accommodations for tests such as the GRE, GMAT and LSAT.

And, the right diagnosis is important because other problems such as depression, anxiety or ADHD can create symptoms or difficulties that resemble learning disorders yet they require a very different approach to treatment. The most comprehensive learning disability evaluation and dyslexia testing includes a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation and educational testing.

How do I request a Learning Disability or Dyslexia Evaluation in Boston or Newton?

Our board-certified Clinical Neuropsychologists offer Learning Disability evaluations and Dyslexia testing in Boston, Newton Wellesley and Newton Watertown. Our Newton Wellesley location offers free parking and our offices are just minutes away from Cambridge, Needham, Natick, Framingham and other metrowest locations. Clients frequently travel from all areas of Massachusetts, as well as Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Connecticut for our learning disability and dyslexia testing services. We are happy to accommodate scheduling needs.

To learn more, complete our quick and easy Online Intake Form or call us at (617) 259-1895 today.