Guidelines for Documentation of
Learning Disabilities
Qualifications of the Evaluator
Professionals conducting assessments and making recommendations for appropriate accommodations must be qualified to do so. Comprehensive training and direct experience working with an LD population is essential.
Clearly state in the documentation the name, title, and professional credentials of the evaluator, including information about license or certification (e.g. licensed psychologist) as well as the area of specialization and employment in which the individual practices. The following professionals would be considered qualified to evaluate for LD provided that they have additional training and experience in the assessment of LD: clinical or educational psychologists, school psychologists, learning disability specialist, neuropsychologists, medical doctors, and other professionals with a similar level of training. Diagnosis of LD by someone whose training and experience are not in the fields indicated above is not acceptable. It is of the utmost importance that evaluators are sensitive and respectful of cultural and linguistic differences in adolescents and adults during the assessment process. It is not considered appropriate for professionals to evaluate members of their families. All documents should be on letterhead, typed, dated, and signed along with the professional's credentials.
