Assessment
Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) assessment
Clarity on a specific learning difficulty in reading, writing or mathematics, with practical support and accommodation recommendations.
What it is
A Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) assessment helps identify how a person learns and where particular difficulties may be occurring. It provides a detailed, evidence-based understanding of academic strengths and challenges across areas such as reading (including dyslexia), written expression and mathematics (including dyscalculia).
Learning difficulties are not a reflection of intelligence or effort. Assessment can help explain why particular aspects of learning have remained difficult despite appropriate teaching and support, and identify the strategies and adjustments most likely to help.
A comprehensive learning assessment typically brings together cognitive assessment and academic achievement testing, alongside developmental and educational history and, where appropriate, assessment of underlying skills associated with learning.
Our approach is neuroaffirming and strengths-based, looking at the person’s broader learning profile rather than focusing only on areas of difficulty. Findings are translated into clear, practical recommendations that can inform targeted intervention, school or university adjustments, and support at home.
A clear, considered process
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Enquiry & intake
We discuss the difficulties you’ve noticed and gather relevant school reports and history.
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Cognitive testing
A measure of underlying cognitive ability, to set academic results in context.
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Achievement & processing
Academic achievement testing (reading, writing, maths) with tests of the relevant processing skills.
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Feedback & report
A feedback session, and a written report with clear diagnoses where relevant, recommendations and accommodations.
Tools that may be used
An SLD assessment pairs a cognitive measure (see cognitive assessment) with academic achievement testing, and often targeted processing tests. Measures that may be used include:
Academic achievement
The WIAT (Wechsler Individual Achievement Test) is among the most commonly used academic achievement measures, pairing directly with the Wechsler cognitive scales.
- WIAT-III / WIAT-4: Wechsler Individual Achievement Test
- WJ IV: Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement
Reading & dyslexia
- CTOPP-2: phonological processing
- TOWRE-2 and the GORT-5: reading efficiency and oral reading
Mathematics & written expression
- KeyMath-3 and the TOMA-3: Test of Mathematical Abilities
- TOWL-4: Test of Written Language
Every assessment is individually tailored; the measures above are a representative sample, not a fixed battery.
Fees
Transparent about cost
- Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) Assessment $1,750
Questions
Frequently asked
Can you diagnose dyslexia?
Yes. A specific learning disorder assessment can identify dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (written expression) and dyscalculia (mathematics), and describe the support that will help.
Why does a learning assessment include cognitive testing?
A specific learning disorder is identified by comparing academic achievement against underlying cognitive ability. Pairing the two is what makes the diagnosis valid and the recommendations useful.
Will the report help with school accommodations?
Yes. The report sets out clear, practical recommendations and accommodations you can share with a school or university, and we can liaise with the school where appropriate.
Do you assess adults?
Yes. Learning assessments are valuable at any age, including for university students and adults seeking accommodations or clarity.
Other assessments
Get started
Start with a conversation.
Tell Myra a little about what’s happening. No referral is needed, and you’ll hear back within two business days.