Non-Verbal difficulties, typically diagnosed as Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD), can manifest in various ways, particularly impacting an individual's ability to interpret and respond to non-verbal cues like facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language.
While these difficulties look different for every individual, they often lead to social anxiety, making it difficult for individuals to engage in social interactions without extensive preparation and stress.
For those struggling with Non-Verbal learning difficulties, the world can feel like an overwhelming place where social situations become a minefield of potential missteps and misunderstandings. These challenges can lead to feelings of alienation and isolation, as the individual finds it difficult to connect with others, express themselves, and navigate everyday interactions confidently.
Traditionally, Non-Verbal learning difficulties (just like all other learning disabilities) are seen as lifelong challenges that can’t be overcome. Here at Arrowsmith, however, we know this not to be the case. Through cognitive exercises designed to harness the power of neuroplasticity, individuals can strengthen their brains and transform their lives.
This case study explores the journey of Ona, a 21-year-old who overcame her Non-Verbal difficulties with the help of The Arrowsmith Program.
Age: 21, Young Adult
Learning Difficulty: Non-Verbal Thinking
Program Type: Full-Time - Online
Time in Program: 1 Year
Location: Canada
Ona, a 21-year-old from Canada, faced significant challenges due to her Non-Verbal Thinking difficulties.
This was particularly apparent in social situations, which were a source of constant anxiety for her. Ona felt the need to meticulously plan and prepare for any interaction, even with friends, because she couldn’t trust her ability to react appropriately in the moment. Conversations were overwhelming, as she struggled to process information quickly enough to respond in a timely manner. This led to a deep sense of self-doubt and fear of social situations.
All of this meant that Ona found it difficult to let go and be herself in social settings. She was always concerned with whether her facial expressions were appropriate and often felt more focused on appearing engaged than actually listening. This made it hard for her to connect with others, leaving her feeling isolated and left out.
She had particular difficulty when it came to being able to tell if people liked her or enjoyed spending time with her unless they were visibly smiling or laughing. Neutral expressions were a source of confusion, leading Ona to feel the need to be overly engaging to gain positive feedback.
Her slow processing speed further compounded these issues. Ona often found herself two steps behind in conversations, and unable to express her thoughts or feelings clearly. This difficulty in unlocking her vocabulary and accessing information made it challenging for her to articulate her ideas, leaving her feeling disconnected and misunderstood.
Ona’s top struggles included:
Before my time at Arrowsmith, my difficulty with Non-Verbal Thinking really showed itself in many different ways. Some of those being, whenever I would enter a social situation - whether that be a group of people or just a couple of people - if they weren’t my close family or relatives, even if they were friends of mine, I always felt that I had to plan and prepare myself ahead of time.
I didn’t feel like I could trust my ability to react in the moment, behave appropriately, take in the information from what the other person was saying and be able to respond in a timely manner and on the subject. So, social situations were extremely stressful. I was always doubting myself and I felt like nobody could fully understand me. I wasn't able to let go, be present, live in the moment and be myself.
Ona enrolled in The Arrowsmith School Online Program, committing to a year of cognitive exercises designed to address her Non-Verbal Thinking difficulties. In addition to her Non-Verbal Thinking difficulty, Ona addressed other cognitive functions that were causing her challenges.
The program focused on key areas, including:
The Arrowsmith Program - which is based on harnessing the principles of neuroplasticity (our brain’s ability to change and adapt to new experiences) - uses specific cognitive exercises designed to strengthen underperforming areas of the brain. By strengthening the brain’s ability to perform in academic, professional and everyday tasks, Arrowsmith is able to help individuals transform their lives and dramatically improve their overall well-being.
Initially, the program was frustrating for Ona. It forced her to confront the extent of her difficulties, challenging her to think outside the box and consider new ways of approaching social situations.
However, as she progressed, she began to see the value in pushing through these challenges, recognizing the potential for growth and transformation as she moved through the targeted cognitive exercises.
“It was frustrating at first because I realized to what extent I had a difficulty in this area - before that I assumed I was getting by and I was doing alright but I was always scared of making mistakes and thinking out of the box,” she said. “This forced me to open up my mind and consider options I wouldn’t normally consider.”
After just a few months in the program, Ona began to notice significant changes in herself. She felt more confident in social situations and was able to trust her brain to guide her through interactions without the need for extensive preparation.
Subtle changes also became apparent - she started noticing her own facial expressions more, interpreting social situations more accurately, and reading the bigger picture rather than getting stuck on small details.
Her family and friends noticed the difference as well. They saw a transformation in Ona from a shy and reserved individual to someone who was comfortable in her own skin, taking risks, and genuinely enjoying social interactions. She could now share stories, ask questions, and engage with others without the constant fear of being misunderstood.
Ona also found it easier to make friends and realized that not connecting with someone wasn’t a reflection of her worth, but simply a difference in personalities. Her newfound confidence allowed her to participate more fully in social and academic settings. She could hold on to ideas, explain stories from beginning to end, and stay focused in conversations.
The changes in Ona’s life were profound. She could now express herself clearly, complete tasks more efficiently, and prioritize her thoughts and ideas. While she acknowledges that her journey isn’t finished, Ona is confident that she is on the right path and continues to grow and improve each day.
Since enrolling with Arrowsmith, Ona has seen a multitude of outcomes such as:
She is now studying at the University of Victoria, and working towards a Bachelor of Arts with a plan to major in Psychology.
If I was to meet someone with the difficulties that I used to have, and if I met someone that I saw a little bit of myself in, I would definitely feel comfortable sharing my experience and my journey, because, ultimately, it was life changing for me. My life would not be the way it is now. If I am able to experience such a change and be more confident in myself then it’s worth sharing that. I want other people to experience that and be comfortable with themselves.
I would definitely recommend the Arrowsmith Program. Change is possible. Just because you struggle with something right now, doesn’t mean you are stuck with that for the rest of your life.
