HOW TO FIND AND SELECT AN ACADEMIC THERAPIST

What is an academic therapist? From DyslexiaMyLife.org

Academic therapists (sometimes called educational therapists or academic language therapists) are specialists specifically trained to work with students with dyslexia.  They have completed extensive accredited training in multisensory structured language teaching.  They are trained in the structure of the English language and how to teach that structure in a multisensory manner.  They are trained to remediate problems in reading, spelling, and written language.  Not all students need academic therapy; some just need tutoring for help with a particular subject.

What is the difference between tutoring and academic therapy?

Tutoring is a support service that assists the student in specific areas with which he or she may be having difficulty as far as a subject or curriculum is concerned.  Tutoring supports the student in meeting the grade level in any necessary subject including basic study skills.  It involves instruction in subject content and/or in the total curriculum by a private instructor who works with the individual student or in a small group.  The focus generally is directed toward completing a curriculum or a specific area of work.

Academic therapy is an intensive remedial approach that starts the student with dyslexia with the basics and rebuilds the learning continuum step-by-step.  Academic therapy starts from ground zero so that no gaps are left in the student’s grasp of and facility with processing information in reading, writing, spelling, and/or math.  It includes an adaptation of the content, curriculum, and materials based on the student’s skills and specific needs.  It is individualized, structured instruction that is written and planned for a particular student and is delivered by a thoroughly trained individual.

How do I find a good academic therapist?

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) maintains a nationwide database of members who provide one-to-one instruction for people with dyslexia.  While IDA does not make endorsements, these therapists provide detailed information to IDA about their educational background and training that can help consumers make judgments about qualifications.  Other organizations screen academic therapists and publish directories of or have websites with recommended therapists or provide personalized referral services to match students with therapists.  (See the list of such organizations at the end of this fact sheet.) 

IDA branches, schools, libraries, pediatricians, counselors, diagnosticians, and parents also can be sources for locating one-to-one instruction.

How do I know the academic therapist is reputable or qualified?

Take time to assess whether or not the person you are considering is a good match. Initially, you should elicit general information over the phone:

·         How long has this individual been in practice? 

·         Can this person supply you with references from families, schools, and related professionals? 

·         Is this person involved in other professional activities (serving on boards or committees, speaking at conferences, conducting workshops, etc.) that enable you to verify good standing in the field?

·         Is this person certified by an accredited program?

The next step is to meet and interview this individual to determine if he or she has a personal style that is comfortable for you and teaching expertise that is appropriate to your student’s learning needs. 

 From DyslexiaMyLife.org