Learning Disabilities Screening and Evaluation

Understanding Learning Disabilities: What Are They?

Learning disabilities (LDs) are neurologically based process challenges that interfere with the way an individual receives, processes, stores, and expresses information. These disorders can impact skills like reading, writing, math, reasoning, listening, and speaking. It’s important to note that LDs do not affect intelligence. Many individuals with LDs have average or above-average IQs but simply process information differently.

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How Common Are Learning Disabilities?

Learning disabilities are more common than many realize. In the United States alone, an estimated 10% of individuals are diagnosed with an LD at some point in their lives. Globally, around 5% of school-aged children are affected.

Among the various types of LDs, dyslexia are the most prevalent, accounting for up to 80% of all cases. This high prevalence highlights the importance of early screening and individualized support to ensure children thrive both academically and emotionally.

About TEMA Therapy

TEMA Therapy offers Diagnostics & Testing services for anyone wishing to learn more about their symptoms, find their possible causes, and get guidance on their next steps.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our unique approach to assessment and testing.

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Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Learning Disabilities

Academic and Cognitive Signs

Learning disabilities can manifest in many ways depending on the individual and the specific type of LD. Common academic indicators include:

  • Difficulty identifying letters, numbers, or symbols.
  • Struggles with counting or understanding math concepts.
  • Trouble reading aloud or sounding out words.
  • Difficulty organizing thoughts or completing tasks.
  • Challenges with writing legibly or holding a pencil.
  • Short-term or long-term memory problems.
  • Problems following directions or staying focused.

Behavioral and Emotional Symptoms

Emotional responses often accompany academic struggles. Children with LDs may:

  • Resist going to school or avoid assignments.
  • Show signs of frustration or anger during homework.
  • Make self-critical comments (e.g., “I’m stupid.”).
  • Experience mood swings or defiant behavior.
  • Act out in school or social settings.
  • Avoid reading aloud or doing math in front of others.

These behaviors are often misunderstood as laziness or disobedience, when in fact, they may be the child’s way of coping with undiagnosed challenges.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of learning disabilities aren’t fully understood, but researchers believe they result from a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors.

Common Risk Factors Include:

  • Family history of LDs
  • Premature birth or low birth weight
  • Prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs
  • Developmental delays in speech and language
  • Poor nutrition or exposure to environmental toxins
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)

Learning disabilities are also commonly seen alongside other mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). In fact, studies suggest 20% to 70% of children with psychiatric disorders also have LDs.

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Diagnosis: How Are Learning Disabilities Identified?

Early identification and diagnosis are key to ensuring the best outcomes. Typically, concerns are first raised by caregivers or teachers when a child starts school. To confirm a diagnosis, a multi-disciplinary evaluation is necessary.

The Evaluation Process Involves:

  • Observations by teachers and caregivers.
  • Interviews with the child and family members.
  • Medical history review to rule out sensory impairments.
  • Academic assessments of reading, writing, and math skills.
  • Cognitive tests to measure IQ and processing abilities.
  • Psychological evaluation to detect coexisting mental health conditions.
  • Neuropsychological testing to map brain-related strengths and weaknesses.

These evaluations help identify the specific learning style and needs of the child, leading to tailored educational strategies and support.

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Managing Learning Disabilities: Building a Support System

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to managing learning disabilities. Management plans depend on the type and severity of the LD and involve a collaborative effort among educators, specialists, and caregivers.

Three Levels of Educational Support:

  1. Accommodation
    • Tools or strategies that help the child access the general curriculum without altering content.
    • Examples: Extra test time, audio books, note-takers.
  2. Modifications
    • Changes to what the child is expected to learn.
    • Examples: Simplified assignments, oral testing.
  3. Remediation
    • Targeted instruction to improve specific learning skills.
    • Usually delivered by special education teachers or therapists.

Other Support Professionals Might Include:

  • Educational remediation specialists
  • Occupational or speech therapists
  • Psychologists or counselors
  • Special education teachers
  • Healthcare providers
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Long-Term Outlook: What to Expect

The Lifelong Nature of LDs

Learning disabilities do not go away with age, but many individuals learn how to adapt and succeed. Early interventions significantly increase the likelihood of long-term success in school, work, and life.

Potential Complications

Without proper diagnosis and support, LDs can lead to:

  • Low self-esteem
  • Academic failure
  • Social isolation
  • Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression

With the right support system, however, children with LDs can thrive, build on their unique strengths, and lead fulfilling, successful lives.

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Why Choose TEMA Therapy?

At TEMA Therapy, we understand that every individual’s journey to emotional and mental well-being is deeply personal. That’s why we provide more than just therapy we offer a compassionate, evidence-based path to healing, growth, and empowerment.

  • Personalized Care, Every Step of the Way

No two people are the same  and neither are their challenges. Our team takes the time to deeply understand your needs, struggles, and goals to create customized treatment plans tailored specifically for you or your child. Whether it’s learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, we walk beside you with a strategy that fits.

  • Multidisciplinary Expertise

Our experienced therapists, psychologists, and educational specialists bring together diverse professional backgrounds. This collaborative approach ensures you receive comprehensive support  whether you’re seeking therapy, educational evaluations, or support for neurodevelopmental conditions.

  • Evidence-Based Practices

We only use therapies that are supported by science. From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to mindfulness-based interventions and psycho-educational assessments, our methods are proven to help clients achieve lasting results.

  • Support for Children, Teens, Adults & Families

We work with individuals across all age groups. Whether your child is struggling with school or you’re an adult navigating life’s complexities, TEMA offers supportive, age-appropriate care. We also work closely with families to build stronger connections and more supportive home environments.

  • A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space

At TEMA, you’ll always be met with warmth, understanding, and respect. We are a stigma-free zone where you’re encouraged to speak openly, feel deeply, and heal fully. You’re not alone and you never have to be.

  • Empowering Long-Term Change

We believe therapy should go beyond short-term symptom relief. Our goal is to equip you with lifelong tools and emotional resilience to thrive in your personal, academic, and professional life.

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Helping Your Child Thrive

As a parent or caregiver, you play a vital role. Here’s how you can help:

  • Monitor progress and adjust their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) as needed.
  • Communicate openly with teachers and specialists.
  • Provide encouragement and create a positive learning environment at home.
  • Seek therapy if emotional or behavioral issues arise.
  • Take care of yourself to stay strong and advocate effectively.

OUR STAFF

Meet our Therapists

For more online therapist profiles

Dr. Irina Volynsky

Clinical Director

Specialty: Clinical psychologist working with adults, children and families. Testing and Therapy

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian, Ukrainian

Dr. Emile T. Berk

Psychologist

Specialty: Clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents and children. Testing.

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English

Irina Bashkirov

Mental Health Counselor

Specialty: Adult and child therapy

License: New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian, Hebrew

Andrew Roetman

Supervised Therapist

Specialty: Therapy and testing perfumed under the supervision of clinical director

Languages: English and Spanish

Natalia Rowe

Language and Feeding Specialist

Specialty: Speech-Language/Disphagia Therapist

Licenses: New York, New Jersey 

Languages: English, Russian

Amaury Hernandez

Behavioral Conditioning Coach

Specialty: Sensory Integration, Emotional Regulation

Certificates: Personal Trainer, Sensory Integration, Parkour

Languages: English, Spanish

Natallia Khamenka

Therapist

Specialty: Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy

Licenses:  New Jersey – pending

Languages: English, Russian, Belarusian

Zhanna Beyl

Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with teens, adults, couples, and families 

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Katya Chizhova, LCSW

Clinical Social Worker

Specialty: Psychotherapist working with the elderly and people with acute and chronic medical conditions

Licenses: New York, New Jersey

Languages: English, Russian

Darina Konstorum

Supervised Mental Health Counselor

Speciality: Adult and Child Therapy. Group Therapy

Licenses: New Jersey – pending

Languages: English, Russian

Tamara Kapustina

Health Coach & Personal trainer

Specialty: Personal Trainer. Executing Functioning Trainer.

Languages: Russian, Ukrainian, English (Intermediate)

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NEWSLETTER

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Who benefits from our service?

I can't thank Tema Therapy enough for their incredible support in managing my ADHD. The therapists here are compassionate, knowledgeable, and understanding. They took the time to truly understand my struggles and provided me with effective coping strategies. The therapy sessions have made a significant positive impact on my life, helping me regain focus, improve productivity, and boost my self-esteem. Tema Therapy is a game-changer for anyone seeking assistance with ADHD.

Emily R

Tema Therapy has been an essential part of my journey in overcoming anxiety disorders. The therapists are empathetic, patient, and highly skilled in providing the right tools to manage anxiety effectively. The sessions were tailored to my specific needs, and the techniques I learned have been instrumental in reducing panic attacks and daily anxiety levels. While there's always room for improvement, I can confidently say that Tema Therapy is a place where anxiety disorders are truly understood and addressed.

Jason L

Tema Therapy has been a ray of hope in my battle against depression. The therapists here create a warm and nurturing environment, allowing for open and honest discussions. Their compassionate approach helped me feel safe while exploring the root causes of my depression. Through their guidance and evidence-based techniques, I've experienced significant progress in my emotional well-being. Tema Therapy is a beacon of light, reminding us that recovery from depression is possible.

Samantha H

Tema Therapy provided me with invaluable support during the most challenging period of my life—grieving the loss of a loved one. The therapists demonstrated exceptional empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for me to express my emotions and navigate the complexities of grief. Their expertise in grief counseling helped me find healthy coping mechanisms, allowing me to gradually heal and honor the memory of my loved one. Tema Therapy is an oasis of compassion during times of profound loss.

Daniel M

Tema Therapy has been instrumental in unlocking my true potential despite learning disabilities. The therapists here possess an in-depth understanding of different learning challenges and provide personalized strategies that cater to individual needs. Their patience, encouragement, and innovative techniques have empowered me to overcome obstacles and succeed academically. Although progress can take time, Tema Therapy has proven to be a transformative resource for individuals with learning disabilities, offering a path towards brighter futures.

Olivia K

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions? Email us at [email protected] for further queries.

Can learning disabilities be cured?

No, LDs cannot be cured, but they can be managed effectively with the right strategies, support, and interventions.

What role do parents play in managing learning disabilities?

Parents are crucial in identifying early signs, advocating for support, maintaining communication with educators, and fostering a supportive home environment.

Can adults have undiagnosed learning disabilities?

Yes. Many adults discover their LDs later in life, especially in higher education or challenging workplace environments.

How do I get started with therapy at TEMA?

Getting started is easy. Just contact us via phone, email, or our website to schedule an initial consultation. From there, we’ll walk you through the next steps and match you with the right therapist for your needs.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, all therapy is confidential. We follow strict ethical and legal guidelines to protect your privacy. For children and teens, we also balance confidentiality with parental involvement in a developmentally appropriate way

How early can learning disabilities be diagnosed?

While some signs may appear before age 5, most diagnoses happen after the child starts school and academic challenges become apparent.

What’s the difference between a learning disability and ADHD?

ADHD affects attention and impulse control, while LDs affect specific learning processes. However, the two can co-occur and sometimes share overlapping symptoms.

What makes TEMA Therapy different from other clinics?

At TEMA, we go beyond just offering therapy  we create a warm, personalized, and evidence-based experience. Our multidisciplinary team tailors every treatment plan to your specific needs, ensuring you get the right support at the right time. We’re also proud to offer integrated care that combines therapy, educational assessments, and family support.

Will my child need special education forever?

Not necessarily. Some children benefit from temporary support, while others may need ongoing assistance. The goal is to foster independence and success in learning.

How do I get started with therapy at TEMA?

Getting started is easy. Just contact us via phone, email, or our website to schedule an initial consultation. From there, we’ll walk you through the next steps and match you with the right therapist for your needs.

 
Is therapy confidential?

Yes, all therapy is confidential. We follow strict ethical and legal guidelines to protect your privacy. For children and teens, we also balance confidentiality with parental involvement in a developmentally appropriate way

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