03 Feb Nonverbal Learning Disorder vs. Autism
Brooklyn Letters
1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn
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We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old -
Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
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I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
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Excellent services, caring therapists.
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Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
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We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
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We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
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The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
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Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
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I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
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Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
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Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
Thanks to both for a job well done... -
Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
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Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
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One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
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I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
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Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
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I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
Kanu Patel -
We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
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Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
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My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
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I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
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Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
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Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
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Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
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As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them. -
We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
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We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
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Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
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Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
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We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
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The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
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Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
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We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.
NONVERBAL LEARNING DISORDER VS. AUTISM:
Key Differences, Symptoms & Diagnosis
Understanding the difference between Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is crucial for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. While both conditions affect social skills and learning abilities, they are distinct in their causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
In the United States, Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) affects approximately 3% to 4% of the population, with an estimated 2.2 to 2.9 million children and adolescents diagnosed. NVLD is characterized by challenges in visual-spatial processing, social skills, and motor coordination, despite strong verbal abilities.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects around 4% of boys and 1% of girls, with an overall prevalence of 2.4% among white children. A significant 25% to 30% of autistic individuals are minimally or nonverbal.
25% to 30% of people with autism are minimally verbal or nonverbal. While some individuals can be diagnosed with both ASD and NVLD, these are distinct conditions with different diagnostic criteria.
If you are concerned about your child’s autism symptoms or nonverbal learning disabilities characteristics, this guide will help you understand the necessary steps for an autism test or NVLD assessment.
What is Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)?
Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD) is a neurological condition affecting an individual’s ability to process visual-spatial information and understand nonverbal cues, despite having strong verbal skills.
NVLD Symptoms:
These obstacles often create stress and overwhelm. However, AI-powered tools can provide targeted solutions to these challenges.
- Difficulty understanding body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.
- Challenges with spatial awareness and motor coordination.
- Struggles in math, problem-solving, and organization.
- Social difficulties, leading to misinterpretations of conversations.
- Anxiety and difficulty adapting to changes.
NVLD Diagnosis
Diagnosing NVLD is done through a neuropsychological evaluation, where professionals assess cognitive skills, motor coordination, and social interactions. Unlike autism diagnosis, NVLD is not officially recognized in the ICD-10 classification.
If you suspect your child has NVLD, consider scheduling a nonverbal learning disorder assessment with a specialist.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition affecting communication, behavior, and social interaction. The severity of symptoms varies across autism levels, from mild to severe.
Autism Symptoms:
- Delayed speech or autism nonverbal challenges.
- Difficulty with eye contact and social interactions.
- Repetitive behaviors, intense interests in specific topics.
- Sensory sensitivities (e.g., aversion to loud noises, textures).
- Challenges in understanding others’ emotions.
Autism Early Signs
Early detection is crucial. Common autism early signs in toddlers include:
- Lack of response to their name.
- No pointing or showing objects.
- Limited social engagement.
- Unusual repetitive movements (e.g., hand flapping, rocking)
Autism Diagnosis
An autism evaluation includes a comprehensive autism assessment with tools like:
ASD is classified under autism ICD-10 codes (F84.0 – Childhood Autism, F84.5 – Asperger’s Syndrome, etc.) for medical and insurance purposes.
Key Differences Between NVLD & Autism
While nonverbal learning disorder and autism spectrum disorder share some traits, they differ significantly:
Communication
NVLD: Strong verbal skills but poor nonverbal understanding.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: May have delayed speech or be autism nonverbal.
Social Skills
NVLD: Struggles with interpreting social cues but wants to connect.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Social deficits, often prefer solitude.
Sensory Activities
NVLD: Mild or absent.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: High sensitivity to sounds, textures, lights.
Motor Coordination
NVLD: Poor motor skills and spatial awareness difficulties.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Some may struggle with coordination, but not always.
Diagnosis & Clarification
NVLD: No official ICD-10 classification, often misdiagnosed.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recognized as a neurodevelopmental disorder under autism ICD-10 codes.
This study examines the overlap and differences between ASD, ADHD, and NLD in terms of comorbid anxiety, depression, and pragmatic language deficits. While all three disorders share some psychological and social impairments, ASD is strongly linked to anxiety, ADHD to both internalizing and externalizing symptoms, and NLD to visuospatial deficits and social difficulties. Pragmatic language deficits, affecting social communication, are most pronounced in ASD but also present in ADHD and NLD.
The study aims to determine whether pragmatic language difficulties can serve as a diagnostic marker to distinguish these disorders. Using ROC curve analysis (AUC), the researchers expect no major differences in anxiety and depression among the groups but anticipate greater pragmatic language deficits in ASD and ADHD compared to NLD, making them a potential tool for diagnosis.
If you are unsure whether your child has nonverbal learning disorder vs. autism, seek an autism test or nonverbal learning disorder assessment to clarify their needs.
How to Get an NVLD or Autism Assessment
NVLD Diagnosis & Assessment
Since NVLD is not officially classified in medical diagnostic manuals like DSM-5 or ICD-10, diagnosis is based on cognitive and neuropsychological testing. Common steps include:
- Psychological Evaluation – Tests on visual-spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and motor coordination.
- Speech and Language Evaluation – Ensures no verbal impairments.
- School-Based Assessments – Teachers may provide feedback on social and academic struggles.
Autism Evaluation & Diagnosis
For autism assessment, a medical professional may:
- Screen for Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms – Using M-CHAT, ADOS-2, and behavioral observations.
- Evaluate Communication & Social Skills – Testing how the child interacts, plays, and understands emotions.
- Consider Sensory Processing Issues – Observing responses to sensory stimuli.
A proper autism diagnosis allows for early intervention and therapy, improving long-term outcomes.
Treatment & Support Options
For Nonverbal Learning Disorder
While nonverbal learning disorder is lifelong, interventions can help individuals navigate social and academic challenges:
- Social Skills Training – Teaches how to interpret nonverbal cues.
- Occupational Therapy – Improves motor coordination and spatial reasoning.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps with anxiety and frustration management.
For Autism Spectrum Disorder
Treatments for autism spectrum disorder vary depending on autism levels:
- Speech Therapy – For autism nonverbal individuals or those with delayed speech.
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) – Improves social skills, communication, and behaviors.
- Sensory Integration Therapy – Helps with sensory sensitivities.
Early intervention is key for autism spectrum disorder symptoms, improving independence and quality of life.
Final Thoughts: Nonverbal Learning Disorder vs Autism – Which One is It?
If you are still wondering, “What is NVLD?” or “Does my child have autism spectrum disorder?”, the best step is a comprehensive assessment.
- If your child struggles with reading nonverbal cues but has strong verbal abilities, they may have nonverbal learning disorder.
- If your child shows repetitive behaviors, social struggles, or is nonverbal, they might fall under autism spectrum disorder.
Both conditions require tailored interventions, and early diagnosis can make a significant difference.
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