The Learning Disorders Program addresses the needs of children and adults with learning difficulties and differences who are not learning at the expected rate or who are under-achieving. It calls upon the services of Child Neurology, the Psychology Assessment Center, Speech & Language Department and the Reading Disability Unit in the diagnosis and management of learning issues, including:

• Attention deficit disorder
• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Nonverbal learning disorders
• Mental retardation

Concomitant behavioral and emotional issues may need referral to colleagues in Psychiatry or clinical Psychology.

Comprehensive Evaluation

The initial comprehensive evaluation is usually a three-visit process, with a neurological assessment and review of developmental, educational, and family histories, detailed psychometric and neuropsychological testing, and a summary conference with the patient and family to discuss the diagnosis and develop a plan for remediation.

Close Collaboration with Education Professionals

There is close communication with the school system with recommendations for educational accommodations. For school-age children, visits every six months are occasions to evaluate academic progress and reinforce recommendations to schools.  If medications are used, more frequent visits may be necessary. The average adult patient is seen yearly.

A Commitment to Prevention

The Learning Disorders Program is committed to prevention, as well as diagnosis and management of learning disabilities. We are forming close alliances with the Special Education Department of the Massachusetts School system, colleges and universities with teacher training programs, and the MGH Institute for Health Professions. With the addition of professional staff to the Learning Disorders Program, the goal is to develop and collaborate in initiatives that will focus on prevention of learning disabilities.

Recognition of Academic Achievement

We understand the struggles that accompany learning difficulties, and we therefore celebrate the academic success of our patients who attain Honor Roll or Dean’s List distinction. Their names (first names and initial of surname) are inscribed on our Academic Achievement wall plaques.