The Benefits of Dyslexia: a Psychologist’s Perspective ft. Linda Silverman, Ph.D
Sep 16, 2023
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Linda Silverman, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist, discusses the benefits of dyslexia, its interactions with ADHD, and the visual spatial strengths of dyslexic individuals. The podcast explores the relationship between dyslexia and other learning differences, as well as the importance of auditory timing and synchrony for reading. Alternative approaches to reading, including the Davis dyslexia correction model, are also explored.
A more holistic approach to dyslexia is recommended, focusing on the visual-spatial strengths and the benefits of the Davis dyslexia correction model.
Integration of different learning differences with dyslexia is important, seeking evaluations and treatments from specialized centers for sensory processing disorder and considering ADHD interventions after exploring other interventions and reaching the age of six.
Deep dives
Holistic approach to dyslexia
A more holistic approach to dyslexia is recommended by the speaker. They express a preference for a holistic view of reading rather than relying solely on the usual remedial methods suggested by dyslexia specialists. The speaker highlights the benefits of the Davis dyslexia correction model and mentions specific individuals, Crystal Punch and Mira Halpert, who are trained in this model. They also note that these specialists offer virtual sessions, making them accessible to individuals located anywhere.
Embracing visual-spatial strengths
The podcast episode emphasizes the visual-spatial strengths of individuals with dyslexia. The speaker mentions how dyslexics excel in three-dimensional spatial abilities, relational skills, empathy, and intuition. They even suggest a connection between dyslexia and paranormal experiences, attributing this to the right hemisphere's powerful role in dyslexic brains. The speaker suggests that these visual-spatial strengths are important for the future of society, especially in a world that values left-brain orientation.
Integration of learning differences
The speaker discusses the integration of different learning differences, such as sensory processing disorder, ADHD, visual processing deficits, and central auditory processing disorder, with dyslexia. They stress the importance of good integration between the left and right hemispheres for effective reading, eye-hand coordination, and auditory processing. The speaker recommends seeking evaluations and treatments from occupational therapists, audiological centers like Abel Kids Foundation, and specialized centers like the Star Institute in Denver for sensory processing disorder. They also note the overlap between dyslexia and ADHD and suggest considering ADHD interventions after exploring other interventions and reaching the age of six.
In Part 2 of our interview with Dr. Silverman, we dig into the benefits of dyslexia, its interactions with ADHD, and other topics!
Linda Kreger Silverman, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist. She directs the Institute for the Study of Advanced Development, and its subsidiary, the Gifted Development Center (GDC) in Denver, Colorado, which has assessed over 6,500 children in the last 40 years. This is the largest data base on the gifted population. She and her colleagues at GDC have developed 40 instruments. For nine years she served on the faculty of the University of Denver (DU), in Counseling Psychology and Gifted Education. She developed a course on Assessment of the Gifted at DU, which was also a short course taught abroad. She has been studying the assessment, psychology and education of the gifted since 1961 and has written over 300 articles, chapters and books, including the textbook, Counseling the Gifted and Talented, adopted at 50 colleges. Her latest book, Giftedness 101 (Springer, 2013), contains a chapter on assessment. It has been translated into Korean and Swedish.
Find out more at https://gifteddevelopment.org/
Dyslexia Journey has conversations and explorations to help you support the dyslexic child in your life. Content includes approaches, tips, and interviews with a range of guests from psychologists to educators to people with dyslexia. Increase your understanding and connection with your child as you help them embrace their uniqueness and thrive on this challenging journey!
Send us your questions, comments, and guest suggestions to parentingdyslexiajourney@gmail.com
Also check out our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingDyslexiaJourney
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