LEARNING DISABILITIES

While learning can be a fun and exciting challenge, for many kids and adults school and learning bring up negative associations that impact their mental health. People with learning disabilities may face challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, hopelessness, inadequacy, and a sense of thwarted belonging. They may experience discrimination, lack of access to appropriate interventions or accommodations, real or perceived bullying, low academic achievement despite average and even high intelligence, and more. Without support, these can be lifelong struggles that can impact those who have experienced a learning disability.

Living with a learning disability can be incredibly challenging.  Often, help is needed. Through the counseling process, we will work together to ensure the client's needs are being met. Some ways counseling can be helpful include:

• Demystifying what it means to have a learning disability. This is done  through psychoeducation as well as therapeutic processing 
• Skill building to develop concrete strategies and tools to cope and function with a learning disability
• Address underlying needs such as self-acceptance, confidence, and the client's values as a person and a learner. 
• Self-advocacy to feel more confident to ask for what they need to be successful
• Time and space to share their experience of having a learning disability with a supportive professional who for once "gets them"

No matter what needs or experiences you bring to counseling, you do not have to figure it out alone. 

If you or someone you know could use support, schedule an appointment.