Understanding Neurodiverse Learning Profiles Across the Lifespan
A learning disability does not reflect a lack of intelligence. In fact, many individuals with learning disabilities are intellectually gifted. The issue lies in how they process information, which may impact reading, writing, math, memory, language, reasoning, and executive functioning.
.png)
.png)
What Is a Learning Disability?
A learning disability is a neurologically-based processing disorder that interferes with the brain’s ability to receive, interpret, store, or express information. These difficulties are often identified in school-aged children, but many individuals remain undiagnosed until adolescence or adulthood, especially if their symptoms are misattributed to behavior, motivation, or emotional difficulties.
The term neurodiversity is now commonly used to describe individuals with diverse learning profiles, including learning disabilities. Embracing this perspective allows for strengths-based approaches that focus on support and accommodation, not “fixing” a problem.
Learning Disabilities Diagnosed at Ubuntu Psychological Services
At Ubuntu Psychological Services, we provide comprehensive psychoeducational and neuropsychological evaluations that assess a wide range of learning and cognitive differences, including:
- Reading Disorders (Dyslexia): Difficulty decoding words, reading fluently, or understanding written material
- Written Expression Disorders (Dysgraphia): Challenges with grammar, spelling, organizing ideas, or handwriting
- Mathematics Disorders (Dyscalculia): Difficulty with number sense, calculations, or math reasoning
- Visual-Motor and Visual-Perceptual Processing Issues: Difficulty coordinating visual input with motor output (e.g., writing, copying, spatial reasoning)
- Executive Functioning Deficits: Issues with planning, memory, task initiation, self-monitoring, and impulse control
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Mild depressive symptoms or dysthymia
- Auditory or visual processing disorders
- Fine and gross motor coordination concerns
Who Might Need Learning Disability Testing?
Adults may seek testing for self-awareness, college accommodations, workplace supports, or simply to better understand their learning style. Individuals of all ages may benefit from a learning disability evaluation if they:
- Struggle with academic performance despite average or above-average intelligence
- Experience difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, or math
- Are frequently disorganized or forgetful
- Have trouble following multi-step directions
- Struggle with attention, time management, or task completion
- Appear bright but underperform in school or work
- Have a history of school avoidance, frustration, or repeated academic failure
- Suspect a missed or misdiagnosed learning issue from childhood
What to Expect During the Evaluation
A learning disability evaluation at Ubuntu Psychological Services is thorough, strengths-based, and designed to provide insight—not just a diagnosis. The process typically includes:
We begin by gathering detailed background information, including:
- Medical, educational, and developmental history
- Family history of learning or attention difficulties
- Environmental, emotional, or cultural factors impacting learning
- Current school or work performance and presenting concerns
‍
Depending on the referral concerns, assessments may include:
- Cognitive testing (IQ, executive functioning, processing speed)
- Academic achievement (reading, writing, math)
- Attention and memory functioning
- Language and communication skills
- Social-emotional and behavioral evaluations
- Autism spectrum screening
- Adaptive functioning
- Sensory processing assessments (if needed)
‍
We may request input from teachers, tutors, or family members (with consent) to better understand how difficulties present in everyday environments.
‍
ADHD Testing Accommodations and Workplace Support
Ubuntu Psychological Services works collaboratively with families, schools, and employers to help implement these supports. A formal diagnosis of ADHD can open the door to supportive accommodations at school and work:
Why Early Identification Matters
Learning disabilities do not go away over time, but with proper identification and support, individuals can thrive academically, socially, and professionally. An evaluation is not about labeling—it’s about understanding how you or your child learns best and ensuring access to the tools and services needed to succeed.