Frequently asked questions.

At Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center, we understand that navigating dyslexia testing and intervention can feel overwhelming. We've compiled answers to the most common questions parents ask us to help you make informed decisions about your child's education.

Can't find what you're looking for? We offer a complimentary phone consultation to answer your specific questions and determine the best next steps for your child.

Understanding Dyslexia

  • Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language, making it difficult to read, write, and spell despite normal intelligence and adequate instruction.

    Dyslexia is not a vision problem, and it doesn't mean your child isn't smart. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia are highly creative and intelligent. With the right intervention and support, students with dyslexia can become successful readers and achieve their academic goals.

  • Dyslexia affects approximately 15-20% of the population, making it the most common learning disability. It occurs across all ethnic, socioeconomic, and intellectual backgrounds.

    Research shows that 80% of students with learning disabilities in reading and writing have dyslexia, though many remain undiagnosed. Early identification and intervention can make a tremendous difference in a child's educational journey.

  • Signs of dyslexia vary by age, but common red flags include:

    Preschool & Kindergarten:

    • Difficulty learning nursery rhymes or recognizing rhyming patterns

    • Trouble learning letter names and sounds

    • Difficulty with phonological awareness (breaking words into sounds)

    • Late talking or limited vocabulary

    Elementary School:

    • Reading significantly below grade level despite instruction

    • Avoiding reading activities

    • Difficulty sounding out unfamiliar words

    • Poor spelling (mixing up letters, leaving letters out)

    • Slow, labored reading with many errors

    • Trouble remembering sight words

    Middle & High School:

    • Reading slowly with poor comprehension

    • Difficulty completing timed tests

    • Very poor spelling

    • Avoiding reading and writing tasks

    • Trouble learning foreign languages

    • Low self-esteem related to academics

  • Dyslexia is a lifelong condition that cannot be "cured," but it can be effectively remediated with appropriate, evidence-based intervention. With structured literacy instruction using programs like Wilson Reading or Orton-Gillingham, students with dyslexia can learn to read, write, and spell successfully.

    The brain is remarkably adaptable, and research shows that intensive, systematic intervention can actually change the way the brain processes language. Many of our students go from struggling readers to confident, capable students who excel in advanced classes.

Testing & Diagnosis

  • Dyslexia is diagnosed through a comprehensive literacy evaluation conducted by a trained professional. At Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center, our evaluations include:

    • Phonological processing: Testing ability to manipulate sounds in words

    • Orthographic processing: Evaluating visual word recognition and spelling patterns

    • Reading skills: Evaluating decoding, fluency, and comprehension

    • Written language: Assessing spelling and writing abilities

    • Academic achievement: Comparing reading skills to expected levels

    • Background information: Gathering developmental and educational history

    We partner with local neurologists and psychologists to provide comprehensive diagnostic testing and treatment planning.

  • Children can be tested for dyslexia as early as kindergarten or first grade, once they've had some formal reading instruction. However, we can identify risk factors even earlier.

    Early identification is crucial because intervention is most effective when started early. We recommend testing if:

    • Your child shows multiple risk factors (family history, speech delays, difficulty with rhyming)

    • Reading progress has stalled despite good instruction

    • Your child is struggling emotionally due to reading difficulties

    It's never too late to be tested. We've successfully diagnosed and helped students from elementary through adulthood.

  • A comprehensive dyslexia evaluation typically takes 2-3 hours of testing time, usually completed in one session with breaks throughout to ensure your child is performing at their best and not fatigued.

    After testing is complete, we spend approximately 3-4 weeks analyzing results and preparing a detailed written report. You'll then meet with us for a comprehensive review session (typically 30-45 minutes) where we explain the findings, diagnosis, and specific recommendations for intervention and accommodations.

  • School-Based Testing:

    • Free, but focuses on educational eligibility for services

    • May not specifically diagnose dyslexia (often labeled "specific learning disability")

    • Can take several months to complete

    • Limited to determining if there's a significant discrepancy affecting education

    Private Testing (Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center):

    • Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation with specific dyslexia diagnosis

    • Typically completed within 4-6 weeks

    • Detailed analysis of language processing strengths and weaknesses

    • Specific, actionable recommendations for intervention and accommodations

    • Can be used to support school-based services or inform private tutoring

    Many families choose private testing for faster results, more comprehensive information, or second opinions.

  • Testing costs vary based on the comprehensiveness of the evaluation and the professional's credentials. At Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center, we provide transparent pricing during your complimentary phone consultation.

    While there is an upfront cost for private testing, many families find it's a worthwhile investment that saves time and provides clarity for their child's educational plan. Some families are able to get reimbursement through insurance, FSA/HSA accounts, or as part of an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) through their school district.

Tutoring & Intervention

  • The Wilson Reading System is a research-based, structured literacy program specifically designed for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. It's a comprehensive, systematic approach that teaches:

    • Phonemic awareness and phonics

    • Fluency and vocabulary

    • Comprehension strategies

    • Word structure and morphology

    The program is multisensory, meaning students use visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile pathways to learn. Our team includes certified Wilson Dyslexia Therapists who have completed extensive training and certification through Wilson Language Training.

  • Orton-Gillingham (OG) is the foundational, evidence-based approach for teaching reading to students with dyslexia. Developed in the 1930s, it's not a specific program but rather a teaching methodology that is:

    • Multisensory: Engaging visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning pathways

    • Structured and Sequential: Teaching concepts in a logical order from simple to complex

    • Explicit: Directly teaching all concepts, not assuming students will figure it out

    • Systematic and Cumulative: Building on previously learned skills

    • Individualized: Tailored to each student's specific needs

    Wilson Reading is based on Orton-Gillingham principles. Our team includes certified Orton-Gillingham specialists who can provide individualized intervention based on your child's unique learning profile.

  • Research shows that students with dyslexia benefit most from frequent, intensive intervention. We typically recommend:

    • Minimum: 2 sessions per week (60 minutes each)

    • Optimal: 3-4 sessions per week for faster progress

    • Intensive remediation: Daily sessions during summer or school breaks

    Consistency is key. Regular, ongoing instruction allows the brain to form new pathways and solidify skills. Most students work with us for 1-3 years, depending on the severity of their dyslexia and how early intervention begins.

  • Every child is different, but families typically notice changes within the first 2-3 months of consistent tutoring. Early improvements often include:

    • Increased confidence and willingness to read

    • Better phonological awareness

    • Improved accuracy in decoding words

    • Enhanced spelling skills

    Significant progress in reading fluency and comprehension typically takes 1-2 years of consistent intervention, but the transformation is well worth it. We've watched countless students go from struggling readers to successful students in advanced classes.

  • Absolutely! While earlier intervention is ideal, it's never too late to help a struggling reader. We successfully work with middle school, high school, and even adult students.

    Older students may progress more quickly in some ways because they have greater cognitive maturity and motivation. However, they may also have more gaps to fill and potentially more emotional baggage from years of struggling. Our tutors are trained to work with students of all ages, adjusting the pace and approach to meet their specific needs.

  • No! While a formal diagnosis helps us understand your child's specific learning profile, we provide tutoring services to any student struggling with reading and writing, with or without a dyslexia diagnosis.

    Structured literacy instruction benefits all struggling readers, including students with other learning differences or those who simply haven't received adequate reading instruction. During your consultation, we'll help you determine whether testing is necessary or if we should move directly to tutoring.

  • We offer tutoring at our center in Newport News, serving families throughout Hampton Roads including Williamsburg, Chesapeake, Hampton, Poquoson, York County, and surrounding areas.

    Our dedicated learning space provides a distraction-free environment with all the materials needed for effective intervention. One-on-one sessions ensure your child receives individualized attention focused on their specific needs.

IEPs, Accommodations & Advocacy

  • An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally binding document that outlines special education services, accommodations, and goals for students with disabilities, including dyslexia.

    To qualify for an IEP, a child must be evaluated by the school and determined to have a disability that adversely affects their educational performance. Students with dyslexia often qualify under the category of "Specific Learning Disability" in reading.

    An IEP includes:

    • Present levels of academic performance

    • Annual goals and how progress will be measured

    • Special education services and frequency

    • Accommodations and modifications

    • Participation in state testing

  • IEP (Individualized Education Program):

    • For students who need specialized instruction

    • Provides accommodations AND services

    • More comprehensive, with specific goals

    • Reviewed annually with the IEP team

    504 Plan:

    • For students who need accommodations but not specialized instruction

    • Provides access to general education through modifications

    • Less comprehensive than an IEP

    • Reviewed periodically

    Students with dyslexia may qualify for either, depending on the severity of their disability and whether they need specialized reading instruction beyond what's available in the general education classroom.

  • Effective accommodations level the playing field without lowering expectations. Common accommodations include:

    Reading & Testing:

    • Extended time on tests and assignments

    • Tests read aloud or access to text-to-speech

    • Reduced reading load or shortened assignments

    • Separate testing environment (fewer distractions)

    Writing:

    • Use of speech-to-text software

    • Scribe for longer writing assignments

    • Not penalizing spelling on first drafts

    • Access to word processor with spell-check

    Instruction:

    • Copies of notes or teacher presentations

    • Preferential seating

    • Directions provided in multiple formats

    • Audiobooks for required reading

  • Yes! Navigating the special education process can be overwhelming, especially when you're learning about dyslexia for the first time. We offer assistance with:

    • Understanding evaluation results and educational rights

    • Preparing for IEP meetings

    • Attending IEP meetings with families as an educational consultant

    • Reviewing and providing input on IEP goals and accommodations

    • Helping families understand RtI (Response to Intervention) and the special education eligibility process

    Our goal is to empower you as your child's best advocate while providing expert guidance throughout the process.

How to get started with HRDC

  • Our team includes highly qualified professionals with extensive training in dyslexia intervention:

    • Wilson Dyslexia Therapists: Some team members have completed Level I certification through Wilson Language Training (100+ hours of training and supervised practicum)

    • Orton-Gillingham Specialists: Certified in evidence-based multisensory structured literacy approaches

    • Special Education Background: Licensed teachers with master's degrees and years of classroom experience

    Our director, Kari Fotis, has 25 years of experience as a Special Education teacher and private tutor and is a certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist. We are passionate about staying current with the latest research and best practices in dyslexia intervention.

  • We are currently a private pay practice, but we're happy to provide you with a detailed receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

    Some families have success getting reimbursement through:

    • Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

    • Insurance plans that cover educational therapy or neuropsychological services

    • Out-of-network benefits

    We recommend contacting your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for dyslexia testing and remediation services.

  • Getting started is easy! We offer a complimentary phone consultation to discuss your concerns and determine the best next steps for your child.

    Here's what to do:

    1. Submit the Preliminary Questionnaire or Contact us Today form on our website

    2. We'll contact you to schedule a free consultation call

    3. During the call, we'll discuss your child's challenges and whether testing, tutoring, or advocacy services are the best fit

    4. If you decide to move forward, we'll schedule your first appointment

    There's no pressure or obligation. Our goal is simply to help you understand your options and make the best decision for your child's future.

  • Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center is located in Newport News, Virginia and serves families throughout the Hampton Roads area, including:

    • Williamsburg

    • Chesapeake

    • Norfolk

    • Hampton

    • Poquoson

    • York County

    • Suffolk

    • Portsmouth

    • And surrounding communities

    We partner with local neurologists and psychologists throughout the region to provide comprehensive care for families dealing with dyslexia.