At The Yellin Center for Student Success, our clinical team, led by Dr. Paul Yellin, is committed to helping students, their families, and their teachers understand each student's learning profile from a neurodevelopmental perspective.  We believe that having insight into how a student learns is critical to create the appropriate set of solutions.  We provide an innovative assessment model and offer consultation and support services designed to manage the ongoing care of struggling learners.

Our assessment looks at the functions of the brain that affect the ways a student learns as well as performs in school – functions such as memory, language, attention, neuromotor functions, social cognition, and higher order cognition (the ability to solve problems, or think critically).  Our assessment is not limited to standardized batteries, but can be individualized to identify a student's specific needs.  Interactions between the clinician and student are dynamic and highly interactive.

In a process called "demystification," students and their families receive immediate, clear explanations of our preliminary assessment findings.  This empowering and respectful process allows students to be a part of the solution and also helps them feel more confident about themselves.

The student's learning profile and learning plan are detailed in a report provided a few weeks after the assessment.  In this report, we describe the linkages between the student's learning profile and academic skills.  Our individualized learning plans leverage the strengths uncovered during the assessment and offer specific strategies to address academic difficulties.

After our assessment, families review the report with a member of the assessment team to clarify findings and strategies and plan for the implementation of our recommendations. If desired, our clinical team will speak with teachers and tutors to assist in the implementation process. Our advocacy and transition specialist can offer guidance for working with school systems, choosing schools, and planning for life beyond school.

Read more about how our assessments are different.