Irlen Syndrome is a perceptual dysfunction caused by sensitivity to light rather than visual problems. For those who have Irlen Syndrome, the brain finds it difficult to process full spectral light. This causes interference and perceptual distortions which disrupt the ease and efficiency of the reading process.

By working together with an Irlen screener, the first step is to be screened and determine if Irlen overlays would be helpful, and the second step is to work with an Irlen diagnostician to determine colors for filtered lenses.

Watch this animated video to understand more about Irlen Syndrome.

Watch this sample distortion to experience Irlen Syndrome for yourself.

An Irlen screening involves an evaluation to determine which color overlay an individual needs to improve the brain's perceptual ability to read and comprehend written material. In order to determine if the individual has a sensitivity to a certain wavelength, first there is an initial interview and then a testing procedure to determine the appropriate color, while utilizing the Irlen Method.

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Once the correct color has been identified, a color overlay is placed on top of written material. This overlay blocks out the sensitive wavelength of light. The purpose of the overlay is so that the identified individual with Irlen syndrome will be able to read without distortions. Individuals with Irlen syndrome will see an immediate improvement when reading with the correct overlay. To learn more about The Irlen® Method visit www.irlen.com.

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Seventy percent of the information an individual receives enters through the eyes and must be correctly interpreted by the brain. Any problem in the way the brain processes visual information can cause difficulties in the general ability to function. The patented Irlen lenses filter out the wave lengths of light to which the individual is sensitive-- to allow the brain to process visual information normally. Getting a lens tint assessment for the Irlen® Spectral Filters is the second step. The lens tint is often different than the overlays because it is transmitted light, not reflected light.

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The Irlen Method is a two-step process: problem identification and color identification and requires two testing sessions. Family members 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 problem is and whether color can help eliminate your difficulties. Your correct colored overlay combination is determined at this time. Both certified Irlen Screeners and Diagnosticians can test for colored overlays.

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 Certified Irlen Diagnosticians/Clinics.

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 color selection can result in headaches, eye strain, and fragmented brain processing resulting in more distortions and reading problems.

The cost for the screening and the overlays is $150. An Irlen Screening takes 1.5-2 hours to achieve proper diagnosis, specific Irlen overlay(s) selection, and a reasonable accommodation plan. Immediate benefits are observed in this testing session. ​ An Irlen Lens Tint Assessment determines what colors of lenses are best for each individual. This assessment takes 2-3 hours. It includes the assessment, lenses, and tints. The cost is $675 for ages 17 and under, and $660 for those 18 and older. If you provide your own lenses, the cost is less. Payment options include cash, check, or card. (There is an additional fee for card payments).