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Learning Disability Screening
Learning disability screening helps identify early signs of learning differences in areas such as reading, writing, or numeracy. This streamlined assessment provides an initial understanding of a child’s strengths and challenges, supporting early intervention, classroom adjustments, and referrals for formal diagnostic testing when needed.
Assessment Overview
Learning disability screening provides an early, structured way to identify possible learning challenges before they become entrenched or impact school confidence. At iflow Psychology in Gladesville, we use standardised tools and a brief educational history to examine early indicators of reading, writing, or numeracy difficulties.
This screening process does not replace comprehensive diagnostic testing but helps clarify whether further assessment may be helpful. It is particularly useful for families seeking early guidance, teachers who have observed emerging difficulties, or students requiring support planning. Following the screening, we outline practical next steps, early intervention recommendations, and strategies to assist learning at home and school.
Key Assessment Details
Purpose
Screen for common learning disabilities to facilitate early intervention.
Duration
2 hours in one session
Suitable for:
School-aged children
Category /Type
Learning
What’s Included
Brief clinical interview
Review of educational and developmental history
Targeted screening tests for reading, writing, or numeracy
Behavioural or learning questionnaires (where appropriate)
Identification of strengths and emerging areas of difficulty
Summary of findings
Practical next-step recommendations
Optional guidance on whether full psychoeducational testing is required
What to Expect
During a learning disability screening, your psychologist will begin with a brief interview to understand developmental, educational, and family history. Screening tools will then be used to examine early indicators of reading, writing, or numeracy difficulties.
This is a focused process, typically completed in one session, and designed to identify whether further assessment may be helpful. At the end of the appointment, your psychologist will outline initial impressions, practical strategies to try at home or school, and whether a full psychoeducational assessment is recommended.
Benefits
Early identification of potential learning difficulties
Clarity about whether further assessment may be helpful
Practical strategies to support learning at home and school
Guidance for teachers on where to focus support
Foundation for future educational planning
Helps families make informed decisions about next steps
Understanding Learning Differences Across Childhood and Adolescence
Learning disabilities often become more noticeable as academic expectations increase. Some children and teens may show persistent difficulties with reading, writing, spelling, numeracy, or retaining information, despite appropriate teaching and considerable effort. Screening assessments help clarify whether these challenges reflect a learning disability, attentional differences, developmental factors, or gaps in foundational skills. Early identification supports timely intervention and reduces the risk of frustration, reduced confidence, or school avoidance.
The Role of Screening in Identifying Support Needs
A screening assessment does not provide a full diagnostic outcome, but it offers important insight into thinking skills, processing, working memory, attention, and academic readiness. This information guides whether a formal psychoeducational assessment is recommended, or whether targeted school adjustments, tutoring, or learning support may be sufficient. Findings can support parents, teachers, and allied health professionals to better understand how a child learns and what strategies may improve engagement and progress.
Supporting Learning, Confidence, and Academic Engagement
Understanding a child’s learning profile can help tailor strategies that build confidence and reduce academic stress. Practical recommendations may include structured learning routines, evidence-informed literacy or numeracy approaches, adjustments to classroom expectations, or collaboration with schools and learning support teams. For some students, identifying strengths—such as creativity, visual thinking, or problem-solving—can help guide meaningful pathways for learning and personal development.
Fees & Funding
Privately billed assessment
Medicare rebates do not apply to screening tests
May be eligible for private health rebates depending on your policy
Suitable for self-managed or plan-managed NDIS participants where screening supports functional or educational planning
Payment plan options available
All fees are discussed clearly before booking
Why Choose iflow Psychology
Evidence-based tools for early learning difficulty identification
Clear recommendations to guide school supports and next steps
Clinicians experienced in learning and academic development
Practical, strengths-focused feedback for families and educators
Gladesville location with in-person and telehealth options
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Reaching out is the first step toward positive change.
📞 Call: 02 6061 1144
📧 Email: admin@iflowpsychology.com.au
💻 Book Online: Book Now (Halaxy)
If you’re in crisis, please visit our Crisis Support page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common signs that a learning disability may be present?
Common indicators include persistent difficulties with reading, writing, spelling, numeracy, slow work pace, trouble following instructions, poor working memory, or long-term academic struggles despite effort and support.
What information should I bring to the screening?
Previous school reports, university performance concerns, workplace documentation, or any past assessments are helpful. You may also bring information about early development or learning history.
Can the screening be completed via telehealth?
Many screening components—interviews, questionnaires, and some targeted tasks—can be conducted via telehealth. If specific tasks require in-person administration, this will be discussed with you.
Will the screening help with school, university, or workplace adjustments?
Screening alone does not provide formal documentation for adjustments. However, it can help clarify whether a full diagnostic assessment is needed to support applications for accommodations.
What happens after the screening?
Your psychologist will review the results with you, explain the findings, and outline options for next steps. If a full assessment is recommended, you will receive information about the process, fees, and what it can help with.
How long does a learning disability screening take?
Screenings are typically completed in one session, with questionnaires and background information completed beforehand. You will receive feedback on whether further assessment is advised.
Can a screening diagnose a learning disability?
No. A screening cannot confirm a diagnosis. If significant indicators are identified, your psychologist will recommend a full diagnostic assessment.
Do I need a referral for learning disability screening?
No referral is required. You can book directly. A referral may be helpful if you intend to access Medicare-rebated therapy, but screenings themselves are privately billed.
What is the difference between a screening and a full assessment?
A screening offers an initial indication of possible learning issues through targeted tests and questionnaires. A full assessment involves comprehensive cognitive and academic testing, diagnostic tools, and a detailed report used for educational adjustments or formal diagnosis.
Who is suitable for a learning disability screening?
Screening is helpful for adolescents or adults who notice persistent learning difficulties, have struggled at school or university, or suspect they may have an undiagnosed learning difference.
What types of difficulties can a screening identify?
Screening can highlight signs of dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, processing weaknesses, memory difficulties, or broader learning challenges. It does not provide a diagnosis but clarifies whether further testing is warranted.
What is a learning disability screening?
A learning disability screening is a brief, structured assessment that examines early indicators of learning difficulties such as challenges with reading, writing, spelling, numeracy, attention, or processing. It helps determine whether a full diagnostic assessment is recommended.
Contact & Hours
iflow Psychology
Suite 2, 260–274 Victoria Road, Gladesville NSW 2111
📞 02 6061 1144
📧 admin@iflowpsychology.com.au
Mon–Fri: 8:30am–6pm · Sat: 8:30am–2pm
Find us in Gladesville
iflow Psychology
Suite 2, 260–274 Victoria Road, Gladesville NSW 2111
Near the Guitar Factory, with free and timed parking nearby.
📍 Get directions on Google Maps or contact us if you need accessibility information before your appointment.
Resources
Learning Difficulties Australia (LDA) offers educational resources about learning differences and evidence-informed approaches for supporting literacy, numeracy, and study skills.