Learning Disorders

Learning disorders, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and auditory processing disorder, can make academic life challenging for children, impacting their ability to read, write, spell, or perform mathematical calculations. These challenges can also lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and anxiety, as children may feel different from their peers or believe they are less capable. Shiva Movafaghian, a highly experienced psychotherapist, certified play therapist, and certified life coach, offers specialized support for children with learning disorders. With over 15 years of experience in child and youth mental health, she is dedicated to helping children unlock their potential and develop the skills they need to succeed, both academically and emotionally.

Shiva’s approach to supporting children with learning disorders is holistic and individualized, recognizing that each child’s needs are unique. She starts with a comprehensive assessment to understand the specific nature of the child’s learning disorder and how it affects their academic performance and emotional well-being. This assessment includes gathering input from the child, parents, and educators to create a well-rounded understanding of the challenges faced. By identifying strengths and areas for growth, Shiva can tailor her interventions to best support the child’s development.

Play therapy is one of the core techniques Shiva uses to engage children with learning disorders. Many children with learning difficulties experience high levels of frustration and may avoid academic tasks altogether. Play therapy provides a safe and enjoyable space where children can express their feelings, build confidence, and engage in activities that enhance cognitive and emotional skills. Through play, Shiva can observe the child’s behavior, understand their thought processes, and introduce strategies in a way that feels natural and non-threatening. For instance, activities involving puzzles, games, or storytelling can be used to strengthen problem-solving skills and promote a love of learning.

Shiva also incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address the emotional impact of learning disorders. Children with learning difficulties often struggle with feelings of inadequacy or anxiety, which can affect their self-esteem and willingness to engage in academic tasks. Shiva works with children to challenge these negative beliefs and replace them with more positive, empowering thoughts. For example, a child who feels “stupid” because they struggle with reading might learn to view their difficulty as a challenge they can work on, rather than a reflection of their intelligence. By building a growth mindset, Shiva helps children become more resilient and open to learning opportunities.

Skill-building activities are an integral part of Shiva’s sessions. She uses evidence-based techniques to enhance cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and executive functioning. These activities are tailored to the child’s learning style and are designed to be both engaging and effective. For example, if a child has difficulty with reading comprehension, Shiva might use visual aids, hands-on activities, or multi-sensory learning techniques to make reading more accessible. She also teaches practical strategies for organizing schoolwork, managing time, and breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. These skills not only improve academic performance but also boost the child’s confidence and independence.

In addressing learning disorders, my approach involves tailored interventions that blend psychoeducation, skill-focused activities, and play-based techniques. We also incorporate modern technology to enhance brain training, helping to improve focus and concentration. These sessions aim to strengthen cognitive skills, boost self-confidence, and foster a positive attitude toward learning and overcoming academic challenges.

Parental involvement is a key component of Shiva’s approach. She provides parent coaching to help caregivers understand their child’s learning disorder and offer the right support at home. This includes strategies for creating a structured and distraction-free homework environment, using positive reinforcement to motivate the child, and advocating for their child’s needs at school. Shiva also teaches parents how to recognize and celebrate their child’s strengths, which is vital for building self-esteem and a love of learning. By empowering parents, Shiva ensures that the child’s support system extends beyond therapy sessions and into everyday life.

Collaboration with educators is another important aspect of Shiva’s work. She believes that a child’s academic success is a team effort and often works with teachers, school counselors, and special education staff to create a consistent and supportive learning environment. This may involve developing an individualized education plan (IEP) or providing teachers with strategies to accommodate the child’s learning needs. By fostering open communication and collaboration, Shiva ensures that the child receives the necessary support and accommodations to thrive in the school setting.

Shiva’s approach to treating learning disorders is rooted in her understanding of neuroscience and brain plasticity. She educates children and parents about how the brain can develop new pathways for learning, even when faced with challenges. This knowledge helps demystify the learning disorder and empowers children to work hard and believe in their potential. Shiva’s commitment to creating a positive and nurturing therapeutic experience has transformed the lives of many children, helping them overcome academic barriers and develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments.

Through her holistic and strengths-based approach, Shiva Movafaghian supports children with learning disorders in becoming confident, capable, and resilient learners. Her dedication to individualized care and collaboration with families and educators ensures that each child has the tools they need to succeed academically and emotionally, laying the foundation for a lifetime of growth and success.