Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent difficulties with accurate and fluent word recognition, decoding, and spelling. It is classified as a Specific Learning Disorder with Impairment in Reading (SLD-Reading) under the DSM-5-TR. Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence, and many individuals with dyslexia have strong skills in other areas.
Reading difficulties in dyslexia are neurological in origin and are related to differences in how the brain processes the sounds that make up words. Without appropriate identification and support, these difficulties can persist into adulthood and affect academic achievement and employment.
Following a diagnosis of dyslexia, it is important to put appropriate support and intervention in place. Evidence-based intervention for dyslexia involves structured, explicit literacy instruction that targets phonological awareness, decoding, and reading fluency.
The assessment report includes recommendations that can be shared with a child’s school to support reasonable adjustments, such as additional time in assessments, access to assistive technology, or a literacy support plan. For adults, recommendations may address adjustments in the workplace or in tertiary education settings.
Where relevant, Dr Rouel can recommend referral to specialist literacy tutors, speech pathologists, or other educational support services in the Western Sydney area.
A dyslexia assessment may be appropriate for:
Parents seeking to better understand their child’s learning profile in order to access appropriate support
A neuropsychological assessment is used to identify dyslexia and related specific learning disorders. Dr Melissa Rouel conducts comprehensive assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. A dyslexia assessment with Dr Rouel typically includes:
Some children develop reading skills at a slower pace, which is not always indicative of dyslexia. If difficulties with reading and spelling persist despite 6 months of targeted evidence-based intervention, a formal assessment is recommended. Dr Melissa Rouel provides comprehensive dyslexia assessments to help clarify whether a specific learning disorder is present and what support is needed.
Dyslexia assessments are typically conducted from around age seven, once a child has had sufficient exposure to reading and spelling instruction. Dr Melissa Rouel also assesses adolescents and adults. It is never too late to seek a formal diagnosis, which can support access to appropriate adjustments and intervention at any age.
Dyslexia is a type of specific learning disorder (SLD). The formal DSM-5 diagnosis is Specific Learning Disorder with Impairment in Reading (SLD-Reading). The terms are often used interchangeably in educational and clinical settings. A neuropsychological assessment with Dr Melissa Rouel can confirm whether a diagnosis of SLD-Reading applies and outline the appropriate supports.
Yes. A neuropsychological assessment report can be provided to your child's school to support access to reasonable adjustments, including additional time, assistive technology, or a literacy support plan. The report can also be used to apply for provisions in external examinations such as the HSC. Dr Melissa Rouel serves families across Castle Hill, Parramatta, Blacktown, Fairfield, and Kellyville.
A dyslexia assessment with Dr Melissa Rouel typically involves one session of approximately four hours. A written report and verbal feedback are provided following the assessment. To discuss the process or to make an enquiry, please visit neuropsy.com.au/contact.
Dr Melissa Rouel provides dyslexia assessments delay assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She sees clients from across Western Sydney and the Hills District including: Castle Hill and the Hills District, Parramatta and surrounding suburbs, Blacktown and Mount Druitt areas, Fairfield and South-Western Sydney, Kellyville, Rouse Hill, and Norwest. Telehealth options may be available for some parts of the assessment process. Please contact Dr Melissa Rouel to discuss whether this is suitable for your circumstances.