Exceptional students are those who experience different developmental milestones. There are numerous types of exceptionalities in students. These students may have disabilities, or they may be characterized as gifted or talented. In either case, these exceptional students can benefit from additional support, according to Science Direct.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

If you aspire to work with students with exceptionalities, there are numerous career options available to you in both the education and counseling fields. Take a closer look at the exceptionalities definition and at the needs of students with differences before reflecting on your ideal career field.

As stated in this Understood article, exceptionalities in students are often addressed within the school ecosystem, such as with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that ensures the student has access to the resources they need to succeed.^{(See disclaimer 2)} There are other professionals who can also empower students with differences to thrive, including those in the psychology and counseling fields. 

It’s important to note that not all exceptionalities stem from mental health disorders. For example, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder, not a mental health disorder.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}Even when a student has an exceptionality that is not a mental health disorder, such as a learning disability, they may benefit from therapy or mental health counseling.^{(See disclaimer 3)} 

From a psychological lens, students who have exceptionalities do not have deficits or inherent flaws. Rather, they have inherent strengths, and they have the ability to experience authentic self-expression and develop secure self-identity. This is known as the strengths-based approach, according to the MHDD National Training Center.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Whereas a non-strengths-based approach focuses on what the individual cannot do because of their disability, the strengths-based approach emphasizes what the individual can do. The strengths-based approach is holistic and person-centered. This is empowering to students with differences, as it acknowledges that the student knows him or herself best and can apply strengths to discover solutions to challenges.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

In an age-appropriate manner, psychology or counseling professionals will encourage self-determination, empowering the student to set their own goals, make their own choices and learn from mistakes. This helps students gain confidence while they learn to build on their strengths.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

If you intend to work with students who have differences, it can be helpful to know not only the exceptionalities definition from a psychological perspective, but also the different types of exceptionalities.

What are students with exceptionalities like? Each one is unique, with their own hopes and dreams, challenges and needs. Additionally, students may have differences in hearing, vision or physical movement (orthopedic impairment).^{(See disclaimer 2)}

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that students with the following differences receive an IEP to enable them to receive an appropriate education.^{(See disclaimer 2)} It’s important to note, however, that even within one category, each student is unique and can benefit from a person-centered, strengths-based approach.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

The following are the main categories of exceptionalities recognized by federal law in the U.S.:

Specific Learning Disability (SLD)

Students with a specific learning disability experience challenges pertaining to learning. For example, students with dyslexia may find reading accuracy and fluency to be challenging, while students with dyscalculia may experience difficulty with mathematical calculations. Students with a specific learning disability might alternatively have trouble with speaking or with their reasoning skills.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Speech or Language Impairment 

Students who have an IEP may have a speech or language impairment. Some students may have trouble speaking because of a lisp, while others may stutter. Meanwhile, language disorders can make it difficult for a student to connect with others, succeed in school and navigate their daily life.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Other Health Impairment

This is a broad category in IDEA that can encompass various differences. It primarily includes any condition that can impact a student’s energy level, alertness or physical strength. Some examples include ADHD, sickle cell anemia, epilepsy and Tourette syndrome.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is also covered under IDEA.^{(See disclaimer 2)} Students with ASD may experience differences in communication, behavior, movement and social skills.

Some examples include:^{(See disclaimer 5 )}

• Difficulty understanding nonverbal communication cues, such as body language
• Interpreting language literally; difficulty identifying and understanding sarcasm or figures of speech (e.g., “The ball is in your court”).
• Focused interest on a specific topic
• Repetitive behaviors, such as arm flapping
• Repetitive speech (i.e., words, phrases, or sounds), known as echolalia
• Difficulty showing their emotions to others
• Challenges with adjusting to change

Those with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience their disability uniquely. Some individuals may be completely nonverbal, while others can communicate verbally, while others may incorporate communication tools to support their ability to address support needs. Some students may have higher support needs while others may only need sporadic accommodations or assistance.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Intellectual Disability

This category encompasses all students who have an intellectual ability that is different relative to the standards of same-age peers  Students who have Down syndrome, for example, may display intellectual differences.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Emotional Disturbance

Students with mental health disorders may qualify for an IEP even if they do not have a learning disability or developmental issue. Mental health issues can affect a student’s ability to be successful in the school ecosystem. This category includes disorders such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and oppositional defiant disorder.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Developmental Delay

Students nine years old and younger may have a delay in reaching various developmental milestones. These include talking and walking.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Traumatic Brain Injury

Another type of exceptionality in students is a traumatic brain injury (TBI).^{(See disclaimer 2)} A TBI can cause many issues for students, including problems with memory, attention and information processing. Students with a brain injury can also develop emotional, behavioral and social problems.^{(See disclaimer 6)} 

Multiple Disabilities

Many students who have exceptionalities have more than one type of difference. For example, a student may have both ASD and ADHD. Students with co-occurring differences may require a customized plan attuned to their unique support needs.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Some students may have mental health disorders that can affect their well-being, as well as their behavior, social interactions and academic progress. Because coping skills and health routines are still emerging during adolescence, youth experiencing these challenges may benefit from additional assistance, guidance, and supportive environments to build skills for long-term well-being. 

According to the World Health Organization, some effects of these psychological challenges can include:^{(See disclaimer 7)} 

• Destructive behaviors
• Disordered eating behaviors
• Social withdrawal
• Risk-taking behaviors
• Self-harm and suicidal ideation

Students who have exceptionalities can also experience psychological challenges, even if they do not have a mental health disorder. Of note, students who have disabilities are more likely to experience mental distress than those without disabilities.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Students with exceptionalities can thrive with individualized therapeutic supports that promote well-being and self-advocacy, build on their strengths, and expand opportunities for meaningful participation and goal attainment. Behavioral therapy, for example, can help children with developmental disabilities improve their functional skills, per this National Library of Medicine article.^{(See disclaimer 8)}

The IDEA law acknowledges the benefits of psychological support for students with differences by providing a pathway for coverage in an IEP. Related services, also known as Designated Instruction and Services (DIS), encompass many different types of specialized support, such as therapy or counseling. Because of this, a psychology or counseling professional may serve as an invaluable member of the child's IEP team.^{(See disclaimer 9)}

At Grand Canyon University, you can choose from a wide range of degree programs in education, psychology, counseling and behavioral health science as you prepare to work with children who have differences. Consider applying for enrollment in the Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders degree program, for example, which can prepare you to earn the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an Emphasis in Childhood and Adolescence Disorders degree.