What Is a Learning Disorder?

Learning disorders are neurological conditions that affect how a person acquires, processes, or expresses information. These challenges are not a reflection of intelligence or effort; rather, they reveal differences in how the brain functions. Common types of learning disorders include:

• Dyslexia – difficulty with reading, spelling, or decoding words
• Dysgraphia – trouble with writing, spelling, or handwriting
• Dyscalculia – challenges with math concepts or number sense
• Nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD) – issues with spatial awareness, organization, or social skills

Many individuals with learning disorders are highly intelligent and creative but may face persistent obstacles in academic or work settings. Early identification and targeted strategies can make a transformative difference in their confidence and success.

Who Should Consider a Learning Disorder Assessment?

You may want to pursue a learning disorder assessment if you or someone you care about is experiencing one or more of the following:

• Struggles with reading comprehension, written expression, or math fluency
• Difficulty following instructions or organizing tasks
• Frequent frustration or anxiety related to school or learning
• Concerns from teachers, instructors, or employers about learning performance
• Long-standing academic challenges despite adequate effort

Assessments are appropriate for children, teens, university students, and adults. In fact, many adults discover undiagnosed learning disorders later in life and seek answers to explain their academic or workplace difficulties.

Why Get a Learning Disorder Assessment in Edmonton or St. Albert?

Wholesome Psychology’s assessments are tailored to the needs of our local community. We provide diagnostic clarity while also empowering our clients with insight and next steps. Some of the key benefits include:

• Formal diagnosis: Required for accommodations in school, work, or standardized testing environments
• Funding eligibility: Supports applications for educational or disability supports through Alberta programs
• Personalized support plans: Based on your unique strengths and challenges
• Confidence-building: Understanding how you learn removes shame and supports growth

Our assessments go beyond checklists and scores—we interpret results through a lens of empathy and strength, consistent with Wholesome Psychology’s values.

What’s Included in Our Learning Disorder Assessment?

We use evidence-based tools and a flexible, human-centered process to ensure accurate and meaningful results. Our assessments include:

1. Initial Intake

A registered psychologist or supervised clinician will meet with you to gather history, concerns, and learning background. This step helps us customize your assessment for maximum relevance and accuracy.

2. Formal Testing

Testing may involve a range of standardized tools, such as:

• Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT)
• Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement (K-TEA)
• Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) or Adults (WAIS)
• Conners 4 ADHD Scales (to explore attention overlaps)
• Nonverbal assessments for NVLD or communication disorders

Depending on age and concerns, other cognitive or emotional tools may be included. Testing typically occurs over 1–2 sessions at our Edmonton or St. Albert offices.

3. Report & Diagnosis

We compile your results into a thorough report, written in clear language and suitable for schools, workplaces, or healthcare professionals. The report outlines:

• Any formal diagnoses (if applicable)
• Key learning strengths and difficulties
• Recommendations for accommodations and supports
• Resources tailored to the Edmonton and St. Albert area

4. Feedback & Support

You’ll receive a full feedback session with your clinician to walk through results and explore next steps. We take time to ensure you feel heard, validated, and empowered by what you’ve learned.

How Our Process Reflects Wholesome Care

At Wholesome Psychology, our approach is informed by warmth, inclusivity, and respect. We know that undergoing testing—especially for something as personal as learning—can bring up mixed emotions. Our psychologists prioritize connection and trust so that you or your child feel safe and understood. We don’t just assess for deficits—we celebrate cognitive diversity and create plans that build on what makes each person unique.

Our team of therapists are highly trained and experienced in conducting learning disorder assessments with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent children and adults.

After the Assessment: What Comes Next?

We don’t believe in leaving clients with a binder of results and no follow-up. Depending on your goals, we can:

• Help you advocate for school accommodations and IEPs
• Connect you with trusted tutors, speech-language pathologists, or educational psychologists in Edmonton or St. Albert
• Support you in therapy to build emotional resilience around learning
• Provide reports that assist with Alberta Student Aid, post-secondary disability grants, or job accommodations

Assessment Fees & Booking

Our learning disorder assessments are competitively priced and include intake, testing, interpretation, a formal report, and a feedback session. For detailed pricing, visit our fees page or reach out directly. We offer assessments from both our Edmonton and St. Albert offices and can accommodate flexible scheduling for families and professionals.

Start Your Assessment Journey Today

If you're ready to understand yourself or your child more clearly, we're here to help. Learning challenges don't have to define your path—when you have the right insights and support, growth becomes possible. Our team is honored to walk with you through this process.

Contact us today to schedule your learning disorder assessment in Edmonton or St. Albert. Let’s work together to uncover the full picture of your learning needs and build a plan that supports your success.