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Online Support for Emotional, Behavioral and Executive Functioning Challenges

Online Learning Disability Therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC

Understanding the Emotional Side of Learning Disabilities

Georgetown parents during online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC with Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst’s guidance

What You Will Find On This Page

If you’re seeking online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC, I offer secure, online sessions to help individuals manage the emotional and behavioral impact of learning differences. I’m Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience supporting clients with ADHD, dyslexia, executive functioning challenges, and related emotional concerns.

Learning disabilities affect how the brain processes information. They are not a reflection of intelligence or motivation, but they can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and emotional distress when left unsupported. Therapy helps individuals understand their learning profile, build self-advocacy skills, and develop emotional resilience.

What Are Learning Disabilities?

Learning disabilities are neurologically based processing differences that interfere with reading, writing, math, or organization. Common types include:

  • Dyslexia: Difficulty with reading, decoding, and language processing
  • Dysgraphia: Challenges with handwriting, spelling, or written expression
  • Dyscalculia: Difficulty understanding numbers, math facts, or calculations
  • Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD): Trouble with spatial reasoning, social cues, or abstract thinking
  • Executive Functioning Deficits: Difficulty with planning, time management, and task initiation

These challenges often co-occur with ADHD, anxiety, or emotional regulation issues, which is where therapy can make a meaningful difference.

online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC

Emotional and Behavioral Effects of Learning Disabilities

Individuals with learning disabilities may experience:

  • Chronic frustration or academic anxiety
  • Low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy
  • Avoidance of school or work-related tasks
  • Emotional outbursts or shutdowns
  • Social withdrawal or difficulty with peer relationships
  • Shame, perfectionism, or fear of failure

These emotional responses are valid. Therapy helps clients process these experiences and develop healthier ways of coping and communicating. For these challenges, I offer online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC via Telehealth.

My Approach to Learning Disability Support and Who I Work With

My Approach to Learning Disability Support

For my online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC, I use a combination of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and developmental psychology to support clients with learning differences. In therapy, we work to:

  • Understand the emotional impact of learning challenges
  • Build self-awareness and self-compassion
  • Develop strategies for emotional regulation and resilience
  • Improve communication and self-advocacy skills
  • Strengthen executive functioning and stress management

This work is especially helpful for students, young adults, and professionals navigating academic or workplace demands.

Why Start Online ADHD Therapy?

I provide learning disability therapy to:

  • Children and adolescents struggling with school-related stress
  • College students navigating academic accommodations and identity
  • Adults managing workplace challenges or emotional burnout
  • Parents seeking support for their child’s emotional well-being
  • Individuals with co-occurring ADHD, anxiety, or trauma

You do not need a formal diagnosis to begin. If you or your child is feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or emotionally stuck, therapy can help.

What to Expect in Therapy

In my online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC, you can expect:

  • A nonjudgmental, strengths-based approach
  • Exploration of emotional patterns and learning history
  • Tools for managing frustration, anxiety, and self-doubt
  • Support for executive functioning and goal-setting
  • Collaboration with parents, educators, or support teams (when appropriate)

Therapy is not about fixing, it’s about understanding, empowering, and building confidence from the inside out.

children learning virtually with support from Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst’s Telehealth Therapy in Navy Yard, DC​
Headshot of virtual therapist in Maryland and Washington, DC with Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst

Get Started with online learning disability therapy in Maryland and Washington, DC

Begin the Journey Toward Confidence and Clarity

Learning differently does not mean learning less. With the right support, individuals with learning disabilities can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. If you’re ready to explore therapy for yourself or your child, I’m here to help.