Irlen Syndrome

The Irlen Method helps those with visual processing deficits that affect learning and attention, also known as Irlen Syndrome.

The Irlen Syndrome problem lies in how the visual information is decoded by the brain. People with Irlen Syndrome “see” the printed page differently from others and may be unaware of this. This can lead to slow and inefficient reading, poor comprehension, fatigue and limited attention span.

Many people with Irlen Syndrome report that the text on the page appears to change and may even experience fatigue, tiredness, headaches, sore eyes or other symptoms of strain, all of which make reading difficult.

With the aid of coloured overlays and tinted lenses individuals with visual perceptual processing errors report reduced reading problems, headaches, light sensitivity. The symptoms associated with ADD and ADHD, autism and other related ailments are often reduced.

Irlen Method Benefits

The Irlen Method can eliminate or reduce difficulties associated with:

Reading and learning problems
Dyslexia (visual)
ADD/HD, Autism and Asperger Syndrome
Behavioral and emotional problems
Headaches, migraines, fatigue and other physical symptoms
Light Sensitivity/Photophobia
Traumatic brain injury (TBI), whip lash and concussions
Certain medical and visual conditions

Irlen Syndrome Simulations
 

Want to know why Irlen Syndrome causes physical symptoms? Watch this simulation.

Understanding Irlen Syndrome and the Irlen Method

This video gives an in-depth explanation of Irlen Syndrome and the Irlen Method.

Irlen® - Where the Science of Colour Transforms Lives

Permanent Disability Recognition

Irlen Syndrome testing & treatment is recognized & funded by the Government of Canada for eligible students who are attending post-secondary schools.

In Alberta, an ECS child/student identified with a mild to moderate physical or medical disability is one whose physical, neurological, or medical condition interferes significantly with the ability to learn and requires adjustments to the learning environment. (Physical or Medical Disability (ECS: Code 30; Grades 1–12: Code 58).

Schools must have the documentation to support the assignment of a special education code. This includes a diagnosis of a disability or disorder by a qualified professional. In addition to this diagnosis, it is essential to have a clear indication of how the disability/disorder impacts the ECS child’s and Grade 1–12 student’s participation and learning in an educational environment. Please provide a copy of your child’s Irlen screening report to the school so they can code properly and provide the correct accommodations.

Get Tested

The Irlen Method for testing and assessment is available in Alberta. We can help with treatment for those afflicted with Irlen Syndrome.

Irlen Southern Alberta

Ponoka South

Irlen Northern Alberta

Ponoka North

Irlen Screener Certification Workshop

April 4 - 6, 2025 Edmonton

Screener Certification is an intensive training session for qualified persons who wish to be licensed to test for Irlen Syndrome.

Licensed screeners are able to recognize and test for Irlen Syndrome, identify which coloured overlays reduce symptoms, recommend classroom and home adaptations and give presentations about Irlen Syndrome.

Certified Irlen Screeners are part of an international network of professionals who help maximize educational, work and daily activity performance for children and adults with reading problems, ADD/ADHD, chronic migraines/headaches, light sensitivity, anxieties, autism and sensory processing disorders.

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