The irlen method has been used for over 25 years and is one important intervention that allows the brain to function better and thus more accurantly process information.it does not eliminate the cause but does remove the barrier to learning.

This technology can improve reading fluency, comfort , comprehension, attention, and concentration while reducing light sensitivity. This is not a method of reading instruction. It is a color-based technology that filters out offensive light waves, so the brain can accurately process visual information.

Testing & Treatment

The Irlen Method is a two-step process: problem identification and color identification.It requires two testing sessions. Parents participate with their children in the evaluation process. The color (which is different for each person) is the key to the success of the program and can only be determined after a diagnostic assessment performed by a certified educational professional trained in the Irlen Method.

The first testing session determines whether you have Irlen Syndrome and can be helped by the Irlen Method’s color technology. In this session, we determine how severe your symptoms are, and whether color can help eliminate your difficulties. Your correct colored overlay combination is determined at this time.

____________________________________________________________

The second testing session is only for individuals who show moderate to significant improvement with colored overlays. In this session, we target the precise wave lengths of light causing your problems by using a limitless number of color filter combinations. Your precision color is worn as glasses or contact lenses. The color worn as glasses will not be the same as your plastic overlay color. If your problems are related to math computation, copying, depth perception, light sensitivity, and headaches, colored glasses are your best treatment option because they correct problems with the printed page and also the environment.

Importantly, wearing the wrong color can actually cause or worsen your problems. The testing to identify your correct colored glasses can only be conducted by an Irlen Diagnostician.

Colored lenses provided by optometrists and vision specialists to treat reading problems are NOT the same as the Irlen Method. These professionals do not have the right colors, or diagnostic process for color selection. Inaccurate colour selection can result in headaches, eye strain, and fragmented brain processing resulting in more distortions and reading problems.

SPECT Scans from the Amen Clinic, Newport Beach, CA, USA

These three-dimensional scans using SPECT technology show the portions of the brain that are in heavy use, or "hot". Both scans are of the same brain with, and then without Irlen filters. In the scan at the right, there are many parts of the brain that are "hot". Many more than in the case of a "normal" brain. The scan to the left, shows that the brain is normalized once the Irlen filters are used

Colored Overlays

Irlen Overlays are the original colored overlay technology. They are used by hundreds of thousands of students and over one-million people worldwide. Irlen Overlays are the only colored overlays available backed by more than a decade of scientific research and used by more than 4,000 school districts worldwide.

Colored overlays are most effective for individuals whose difficulties are isolated to reading. If you experience challenges with writing, math, depth perception, night driving, or the environment, colored filters (worn as glasses) will be your best treatment option. However, colored overlays are an important first step in determining whether the Irlen Method can work for you and provide your first experience with relief.

Colored Overlays can help

Improve print clarity and stability
Reduce strain and fatigue
Eliminate headaches
Improve comprehension
Tracking and keeping your place while reading
Make reading faster
Allow you to read longer and with comfort

"The use of Irlen Colored Overlays and filters may provide the fighting chance many at-risk readers deserve."