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Learn more about specific learning disorder
A specific learning disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent difficulties in learning and using academic skills, not explained by intellectual disability, sensory impairment, or lack of educational access. Recognised in the DSM-5, the category covers three main types: dyslexia (difficulties with reading accuracy, fluency, and decoding), dyscalculia (difficulties with number sense, arithmetic, and mathematical reasoning), and dysgraphia (difficulties with written expression, spelling, and handwriting). Specific learning disorders occur across the full range of intellectual ability and often go unidentified for years, particularly in people who develop effective compensatory strategies. Late identification is common in adults, who may only seek assessment after persistent difficulties at work or in further education.
Specific learning disorders are present from childhood, though they are not always recognised at the time. The following signs are common in adults seeking assessment or support.
Common signs
- Reading slowly, inaccurately, or with significant effort, even for familiar texts (dyslexia)
- Difficulty with arithmetic, number sequences, or mathematical reasoning that does not match ability in other areas (dyscalculia)
- Significant difficulties with spelling, punctuation, or organising written work (dysgraphia)
- Slow reading speed or difficulty retaining what has been read
- Avoiding tasks involving reading, writing, or numbers when possible
- A history of academic underperformance that did not reflect effort or intelligence
Other common experiences
- Anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression linked to years of difficulty in academic or work settings
- A sense that something is harder for you than it is for others, without a clear explanation
- Co-occurring conditions such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) or autism spectrum differences
Psychological support for specific learning disorders focuses on assessment, practical strategy development, and addressing the secondary emotional difficulties that often accompany the condition.
- Clinical psychology Clinical psychologists carry out comprehensive neuropsychological assessments, identify the specific learning profile, and provide a diagnostic report that can support workplace adjustments and further referral.
- Coaching Coaching supports the development of practical strategies suited to the individual's cognitive profile, including approaches to reading, organisation, written communication, and managing academic or professional demands.
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) CBT helps with the anxiety, perfectionism, and negative self-beliefs that often develop alongside a specific learning disorder, particularly in people who spent years thinking they were simply not trying hard enough.
- Counselling Counselling provides space to process the emotional impact of late identification, including grief about missed opportunities, and to develop a more accurate and compassionate understanding of how your mind works.
It's Complicated is a therapist-founded mental health platform connecting clients with verified practitioners across Europe and globally, in over 60 languages. We work with over 2,500 vetted therapists, with in-person availability in Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Vienna, and other major cities, alongside online sessions worldwide. It's Complicated is free to use, and you pay your chosen therapist directly at rates they set.
Finding a clinical psychologist experienced in specific learning disorder assessment, rather than a general counsellor, requires a specific kind of search. Our matching service is built to remove that friction. You complete a short survey, our psychologists combine data-driven insights with human judgement to identify the right practitioners for your situation, and you choose from a shortlist of strong candidates. You can also browse our directory directly if you'd prefer to choose yourself.
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