- Become knowledgeable about the components of an effective therapy program
- Understand the definition of a target behavior and how it is chosen
- Know how therapy goals are written
- Be familiarized with what to expect from the therapy session
- Identify the differences between speech-language therapy and tutoring
- Get acquainted with available assistive technology resources
What to do after a dyslexia diagnosis
Once a diagnosis has been made, therapy should be scheduled promptly. Frequent, individual sessions produce the fastest results. In this section, we provide information specific to the therapy program. You will find information about what constitutes a comprehensive treatment plan, how to choose therapy by type, and software tailored to overcome the hurdles presented by dyslexia. See the comprehensive glossary to navigate the technicalities.
Group therapy can be a viable option in that it provides you with a context to meet and work with others with dyslexia who may offer helpful strategies and support. It can also be cost-effective. Smaller groups are better (ideally no more than three), but depending on the ages and needs of the participants, a larger group may be appropriate. For example, in a program Dr. Pierson developed, 6-8 university students worked well together to target strategies for academic success.
Given that reading and writing demands increase and change over time, intervention should be tailored to your specific needs. The clinician may recommend a break in treatment once your language and literacy skills have stabilized. You can return to see the professional when your reading and writing demands change and you want to target new skills.
Keys to successful intervention
- The development of a systematic, individualized treatment plan that is based on specific learning needs. The more frequent, the better the outcomes.
- Performance on the diagnostic assessment informs the design of individual therapy goals. Goals should be measurable.
- Progress should be assessed at regular intervals and the treatment goals adjusted appropriately.
- Intervention should incorporate best practices as evidenced in the literature for remediation of language and literacy skills.
- Intervention may include computer programs designed specifically to address individual goals.
We know that with the right kind of help, you can improve your language, reading, spelling, and writing skills. Use this section of the website to help you get on your way! Success starts here!