Getting Answers Sooner Makes a Difference: Early Testing for Learning Difficulties in Arlington, VA
Is your child or teen having a hard time in school? Do they seem to be driven but frustrated, unable to make sense of the world, no matter how hard they try? There might be something more going on under the surface, like learning difficulties. As a parent, you may be feeling worried, uncertain, or conflicted. You might wonder if you’re overreacting, if your child’s struggles are “serious enough” to justify testing.
At my practice in Arlington, Virginia, I frequently meet individuals and families who feel stuck between concern and hesitation. Reaching out for help is not a failure on anyone’s part—it’s a proactive step toward understanding and finding meaningful support. If you suspect learning difficulties are holding your child back, Virginia Lindahl, Ph.D. Therapy and Psych Testing can give you the answers you’re seeking.
Common Learning Difficulties and How They Affect Your Life
Learning difficulties take many forms, and they don’t always look the same. Some challenges are academic, while others are attentional or processing-based. Many overlap with one another. Common learning difficulties include:
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
This condition involves difficulty sustaining attention, organizing tasks, managing time, and/or controlling impulses. In children, it may show up as restlessness or distractibility; in teens and adults, it may look like procrastination, overwhelm, and disorganization.
Dyslexia
This condition primarily affects reading skills, including decoding, fluency, and spelling. Individuals with dyslexia are often bright and capable but may struggle with reading speed or accuracy.
Dysgraphia
This condition involves challenges with writing, such as poor handwriting, spelling difficulties, or trouble organizing thoughts on paper. Even when ideas are clear, writing can feel exhausting and frustrating.
Dyscalculia
This condition affects math skills—number sense, calculations, and understanding mathematical concepts. In adulthood, it can impact budgeting or time management.
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This condition involves difficulty interpreting spoken language, particularly in noisy environments. A person may hear sounds clearly but struggle to process or retain verbal information.
Anxiety, depression, and executive functioning challenges can also interfere with learning. An assessment through psychoeducational testing is the best way to figure out what’s going on.
The Process of Testing for Learning Difficulties
Testing for learning difficulties is a structured process designed to understand how an individual thinks, learns, and processes information. At Virginia Lindahl, Ph.D. Therapy and Psych Testing, evaluations are conducted in person and typically include clinical interviews, standardized cognitive and academic testing, and reviewing developmental, educational, and emotional history. The goal is to understand the full picture—strengths, challenges, and how different factors interact. After testing, I provide a comprehensive written report with results and personalized recommendations for school, work, or daily life.
Why Getting Answers Earlier Matters
When learning difficulties go unidentified, people often internalize their struggles. Children may believe they’re not smart, teens may lose confidence or motivation, and adults may carry years of frustration or self-doubt. Early testing changes that trajectory. Receiving answers sooner allows for timely support, appropriate accommodation, and targeted strategies to reduce unnecessary stress. It can improve academic outcomes, protect self-esteem, and help individuals understand that their challenges are not due to lack of effort or ability. Just as importantly, it highlights strengths that can be nurtured and built upon.
Take the Next Step
If you and your child are struggling and searching for clarity, early testing will make a difference in your lives. Reach out to Virginia Lindahl, Ph.D. Therapy and Psych Testing in Arlington, VA, to begin the process! Getting answers now can open the door to a clearer path forward—it all starts with reaching out your hand to accept help.