Dysorthography: who to consult to make the diagnosis?
When a child makes numerous and persistent spelling mistakes, the question of who to turn to quickly arises. GP, speech and language therapist, neuropsychologist — several professionals may take part in the diagnostic pathway. Here is how to find your way efficiently so as not to lose time.
The GP or paediatrician: the starting point
The diagnostic pathway generally begins with the GP or the paediatrician. This first appointment makes it possible to rule out other possible causes of writing difficulties — uncorrected visual problems, hearing difficulties — and to issue the medical prescription essential for the speech and language assessment to be reimbursed by the Sécurité Sociale. Without this prescription, the assessment remains possible but is entirely paid for by the parents.
The ophthalmologist and the orthoptist: to rule out visual problems
Before any speech and language assessment, it is recommended to check that the child does not have an uncorrected visual problem. Certain reading and writing difficulties may be amplified by a problem of eye convergence or eye tracking. An ophthalmological and orthoptic assessment makes it possible to rule out or treat this visual component.
The speech and language therapist: the central professional for diagnosis
The speech and language therapist is the reference professional for the diagnosis of dysorthography. They carry out a complete assessment of written language — phonological spelling, conventional spelling, grammatical skills, reading, verbal memory — using standardised tools calibrated on reference populations. It is they who officially make the diagnosis of dysorthography and write the report used for applications for school adjustments and MDPH procedures. To find a specialised speech and language therapist, professionnelsdys.fr offers a detailed directory.
The neuropsychologist: for in-depth cognitive assessments
When dysorthography is accompanied by other difficulties — attentional or behavioural, or when the clinical picture is complex with several associated disorders — a complete neuropsychological assessment is recommended. It evaluates the child’s overall cognitive profile: general intelligence, memory, attention, executive functions. This information helps refine understanding of the mechanisms involved and guide support in a more precise and targeted way.
The school doctor: for adjustments at school
Once the diagnosis has been made, the school doctor plays a key administrative role. It is they who medically validate the PAP (Personalised Support Plan) on the basis of the assessments carried out. It is useful to meet them promptly after the diagnosis in order to start putting the necessary classroom adjustments in place without delay.
Multidisciplinary coordination for optimal support
The diagnosis of dysorthography and its optimal support often involve several professionals working in coordination. The speech and language therapist remains the central pivot — but collaboration with the educational team, the school doctor and, where appropriate, the neuropsychologist is essential for consistent and effective support.
