To become a dyslexia specialist, a student generally has to become a certified academic language therapist; this certification helps teachers recognize learning disabilities and assist students with dyslexia or other learning disorders. The state of Texas has several programs that are either hosted by learning centers or actual universities or colleges. Certification is required to teach in Texas.
Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University offers students the opportunity to receive a learning therapist certificate, and the goal of this program is to teach therapy students how assist individuals with dyslexia and other writing language disorders. Through the educational therapy model, students will learn about the written language structures, educational therapy theories, curriculum, how to teach via multisensory tools and how to teach written language and learning skills. Coursework will be taught via practicums, lectures and actual teaching in school or private settings. This is a two-year graduate certification program, and students must take 700 hours worth of clinical teaching to real clients. Course work must be completed within four years.
SMU Learning Therapy Center /SMU-in-Plano 5236 Tennyson Pkwy, Bldg. 4, Suite 108 Plano, TX 75024 214-768-7323 smu.edu
Scottish Rite Learning Center of Austin
The Scottish Rite Learning Center of Austin offers training to both therapists and therapist teachers, and the goal of this course is to help students prepare to become Certified Academic Language Therapists. The center works in conjunction with Midwestern State University. Students who complete the course will receive a Master of Education in special education with a specialization in dyslexia. This is a two-year graduate program, and students are received to complete both practical and clinical teaching hours. Coursework is based on the "Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia" curriculum. Coursework includes overview of dyslexia and other learning disorders, early language intervention, written language structures and assessing dyslexia. Students must complete 200 classroom hours and 700 teaching hours.
Scottish Rite Learning Center of Austin Inc. 12871 North U.S. Highway 183, Suite 105 Austin, TX 78750 512-472-1231 scottishritelearningcenter.org
Neuhaus Education Center
The Neuhaus Education Center’s Dyslexia Specialist Preparation Program prepares teachers and therapists to work with people with dyslexia and learning disorders. Students must complete 200 classroom hours and 700 teaching hours. Coursework includes metacognitive skills development, multisensory grammar skills, basic language skills, written language structures and spelling and reading skills. All coursework must be completed within five years of enrollment.
Neuhaus Education Center 4433 Bissonnet Bellaire, TX 77401 713-664-7676 neuhaus.org
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