Assessment and Support for Dyslexia in Adults

Assessment and Support for Dyslexia in Adults

Many adults considering a formal dyslexia assessment often hesitate due to uncertainty. If you are part of this group, it is crucial for you to change your mindset. Obtaining an assessment is surprisingly easy. Obtaining one is a simple task if you are aware of the right sources and methods.

Tips for Obtaining a Formal Dyslexia Assessment

If you are seeking a formal dyslexia assessment, consider reaching out to The Dyslexia Institute, a reputable organization that offers assistance in this area. We can assist in scheduling an assessment session for you with a certified, professionally qualified independent psychologist who possesses extensive expertise in dyslexia. 

Having additional background information about you from your tutors or employers can be beneficial for the psychologist. However, in certain situations, you may prefer seeking advice before involving others. 

Addressing Confidentiality Concerns

If you are concerned about how your condition may impact your identity, rest assured. Rest assured that our Consulting Psychologists and Institute staff prioritize confidentiality when handling any information you provide. They will not disclose any information without your consent.

What Occurs During an Assessment

The typical duration of the assessment session is approximately two hours. During this time period, comprehensive discussions regarding the findings have already been incorporated. In addition, you have the opportunity to engage in a conversation with a psychologist who can provide guidance on effective strategies for managing potential challenges related to the information discussed in the session. 

During a comprehensive assessment, you will undergo a thorough examination of your learning, cognitive abilities, and problem-solving aptitude. This is done to identify your strengths and areas of difficulty. Moreover, it has the capability to assess your proficiency in fundamental writing, reading, math, and spelling abilities.

Importance of the Search Results

The information collected during your assessment is utilized by the psychologist to determine if there are any areas of performance that fall below the expected level for your age. If you are experiencing results like this, it may indicate that you have a specific learning difficulty that is impacting your ability to develop certain skills. 

If you encounter intricate data in your results, it may be necessary to provide additional explanation. To accomplish this, additional tests are typically conducted. Once the additional tests have been completed, you will have another consultation with your psychologist to review and discuss the newly acquired data pertaining to your condition.

 Looking for Assistance?

 After receiving an evaluation, one might wonder if there is someone capable of providing assistance. The answer to that question is readily provided following your assessment session with a psychologist. They will provide you with practical instructions tailored to the severity of your case and the challenges you are facing.

The instructions can vary based on your career and educational objectives that you have pursued. 

Typically, these instructions would involve raising awareness about the impact of dyslexia in your life. It is crucial to avoid constant criticism of your handwriting or spelling abilities. After the assessment, your psychologist can provide you with additional instructions that are tailored to your specific situation. These instructions may vary significantly from case to case.

Now that you are familiar with the process of a typical dyslexia assessment for adults, there is no need to fear undergoing one to determine if you have the condition or not.

Options for Evaluating Adult Dyslexia

If you are considering getting an assessment for suspected dyslexia, there are several factors you should take into account. You have the option to receive a formal dyslexia screening or assessment from authorized professionals.

Educational Psychologist (EP) Assessment

To optimize your search engine visibility, it is highly recommended to seek an evaluation from an educational psychologist as your primary and most advantageous option. This type of assessment is widely regarded as the most comprehensive. The fact is that they come at a higher price.

This type of assessment is often necessary as a standard of proof for Tribunals, Examination Boards, Local Education Authorities, Colleges, and Universities. Despite the potential cost, obtaining one can be highly valuable.

Typically, it is necessary to complete a questionnaire to provide essential background information. Then, the Educational Psychologist receives the document. Next, it is crucial to have a significant conversation with the EP. To optimize your search engine visibility, it is recommended to engage in activities that typically require a time commitment of 2-2 ½ hours. Next, the EP will provide a concise analysis of your outcomes. 

Finally, you will receive a comprehensive written report that is confidential, along with accompanying recommendations. You can expect to receive the report within approximately three weeks from the date of your assessment.

Assessment by Specialist Teachers

This type of assessment is comprehensive, but it may not be as widely accepted as proof of the condition compared to a psychologist's assessment. The typical process for obtaining an assessment from an EP is usually followed in the same manner. 

They also offer short assessments that involve engaging in activities for approximately one hour. Once the activities are finished, the specialist teacher will provide a brief discussion of the results with you. The user would also provide some helpful suggestions.

Occupational Therapists (OTs)

An independent occupational therapist can provide an initial assessment for dyslexia as well. The results obtained are typically documented in a personalized intervention program designed specifically for you. If necessary, you can schedule additional follow-up treatments. 

 Engaging in occupational therapy can effectively target challenges related to balance and coordination. The challenges can range from major activities like cycling to minor tasks like handwriting. Occupational therapy is often regarded as a beneficial approach for addressing dyspraxia, a condition closely associated with dyslexia. 

Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) - Enhancing Communication Skills and Language Development

Finally, you have the option to receive an evaluation from a Speech and Language Therapist. The therapist is able to provide an initial assessment of your condition, which can be beneficial for your overall well-being. Similar to receiving an Occupational Therapy assessment, the outcomes of your evaluation will be incorporated into a personalized intervention program. Next, you can schedule therapy and treatment sessions to initiate your intervention. 

Speech and language therapy is a highly effective intervention program for individuals with dyslexia. The primary focus of the therapy is addressing language difficulties, which is the primary concern associated with the condition. 

The assessment results have already identified your weaknesses. The therapist then creates an intervention program to help you effectively manage these specific problems.

Typically, following an evaluation by an EP or Specialist Teacher, it is common for them to suggest consulting a speech and language pathologist for intervention purposes. If it is noticed that you are experiencing difficulties with mobility, it may be necessary for you to consult with an Occupational Therapist.