What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects how the brain processes written language. Students with dyslexia are often bright and capable, but they struggle with reading, spelling, and writing despite typical instruction. Dyslexia is not a vision problem or a sign of low intelligence. It’s a different way the brain is wired for processing language. With the right support, students with dyslexia can become confident, capable readers.
Signs your child might benefit from therapy:
- Difficulty sounding out unfamiliar words
- Slow or labored reading
- Struggles with spelling, even common words
- Avoids reading aloud or doing homework
- Bright in conversation but struggles with written work
- Letter or number reversals beyond early elementary years
Dyslexia Therapy vs. Reading Tutoring
Dyslexia therapy is not the same as reading tutoring. Reading tutors help students who are behind in reading by reviewing classroom material and providing extra practice. Dyslexia therapy addresses the underlying neurological differences that make reading difficult in the first place.
Reading Tutoring:
- Reviews classroom content
- Provides homework help
- Works on grade-level material
- Helpful for students who need extra practice
Dyslexia Therapy:
- Builds new pathways for processing language
- Uses specialized, multisensory techniques
- Builds foundational skills systematically
- Addresses the root cause of reading struggles
- Provided by specially trained therapists (CALTs)
If your child has been receiving tutoring but still struggles with basic decoding, spelling, or fluency, they likely need dyslexia therapy, not more tutoring.
What Makes Dyslexia Therapy Different?
Dyslexia therapy is specialized, evidence-based instruction designed specifically for students with reading difficulties. Unlike typical classroom teaching, dyslexia therapy uses a structured, multisensory approach that teaches reading, spelling, and writing in a systematic way that makes sense for dyslexic learners.
Effective dyslexia therapy is:
- Structured and sequential – Skills are taught in a logical order, building from simple to complex
- Explicit and direct – Nothing is left to chance; every concept is taught clearly
- Multisensory – Students use visual, auditory, and kinesthetic pathways to learn
- Individualized – Instruction is tailored to each student’s specific needs and pace
At Summit Dyslexia Therapy, we use the Take Flight, JET, and Bridge programs, which are aligned with the Science of Reading.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
Every student is unique, but it takes time to make significant, lasting process. Dyslexia therapy is not a quick fix. It’s a systematic process of rewiring how the brain processes language.
You can expect to see:
- Early progress (3-6 months): Increased confidence, improved phonics skills
- Continued growth (6-18 months): Better fluency, stronger spelling, more independent reading
- Long-term success (1-2 years): Continued progress, solid foundations for lifelong literacy
Progress happens gradually with consistent, focused instruction. We work in partnership with families to ensure students get the support they need to become confident, capable readers.