Psychologist and dysorthographia

Dysorthographia is not a psychological disorder. Yet its consequences can weigh heavily on a child’s morale: loss of confidence, anxiety, discouragement. In certain situations, a psychologist can be a real source of support. Here is when to consider one, what they can offer and how to find the right professional. A valuable support when morale falters.

Not a psychological disorder

It is important to stress this: dysorthographia does not have a psychological origin. It is linked to how the brain processes written language, not to an emotional or affective problem. This point is essential.

A psychologist therefore cannot cure dysorthographia, nor replace speech and language therapy. That is not their role. Each to their own role.

However, they can help the child cope with the emotional consequences of their disorder. This is where their value lies. See the causes of dysorthographia.

The impact on morale

Years of red-marked work, comments on spelling mistakes and comparisons with others can leave their mark. Many children with dysorthographia end up believing they are useless or less intelligent. These scars can last.

Some develop anxiety about written work: stomach aches before dictations, crying, refusing to go to school. Others become discouraged and lose interest in learning. These signs must be taken seriously.

In adolescence, these difficulties can intensify, with a sense of failure affecting the whole of schooling. Adolescence is a sensitive period. See dysorthographia and self-esteem.

When to see a psychologist

Consider consulting if your child shows lasting signs of distress: sadness, significant anxiety, a massive loss of confidence, school refusal, sleep or appetite disturbances. These signs should not be ignored.

A psychologist may also be helpful if the situation creates a great deal of tension at home, particularly around homework. Family tensions weigh on everyone.

Do not hesitate to talk to your GP or to the speech and language therapist, who can point you in the right direction. They know the right people to contact. See dysorthographia and anxiety.

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What a psychologist can offer

The psychologist offers the child a space to express what they feel about their difficulties, without judgement. Talking about their frustration or shame can already bring relief. This listening space is valuable.

They can help the child regain confidence in themselves, value their successes and develop a more accurate image of themselves. Approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy can help manage anxiety. These approaches have proven their worth.

They can also support parents, helping them find the right attitude towards their child’s difficulties. Parents also need support.

The psychological assessment

A psychologist or neuropsychologist can also carry out an assessment, which differs from the speech and language assessment. It evaluates the child’s intellectual abilities, attention, memory or emotional state. This assessment is different from that of the speech and language therapist.

This assessment may be useful if there is doubt about high potential, an associated attention disorder, or for an MDPH application. It is not systematic. It is requested according to need.

It is generally paid for when seen privately. Check the fees beforehand. See dysorthographia and HPI.

Reimbursement

Sessions with a private psychologist are in principle not reimbursed by the Assurance maladie. The Mon soutien psy scheme does, however, allow reimbursement of certain sessions with partner psychologists, subject to conditions. This scheme is often little known.

Some health insurers (mutuelles) also cover a set number of sessions per year. Check your contract. Check your contract.

Medico-psycho-pedagogical centres (CMPP) offer free consultations, but waiting times are often long. These facilities are free of charge.

A comprehensive approach

The psychologist forms part of a comprehensive approach, alongside the speech and language therapist, the GP and the school. Each has their own role, and they complement one another. Teamwork is essential.

For many children, simply having a diagnosis and suitable remediation already improves morale. A psychologist is not always necessary. The diagnosis often brings great relief.

But when distress is significant, they can make a real difference. Their wellbeing matters above all. See how to help a child with dysorthographia.

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Questions that keep coming up

Can a psychologist treat dysorthographia? ?

No. Dysorthographia is remediated with a speech and language therapist. The psychologist helps the child cope with the emotional consequences of the disorder, such as anxiety or loss of confidence. The two professionals complement each other.

When to see a psychologist for a child with dysorthographia ?

When the child shows lasting signs of distress: sadness, anxiety, school refusal, significant loss of confidence. Your GP can point you in the right direction.

Are psychologist sessions reimbursed? ?

In principle not when seen privately, but the Mon soutien psy scheme allows reimbursement of certain sessions subject to conditions. Some health insurers (mutuelles) also cover them. Check the conditions.