About Vision Therapy Academy

At Vision Therapy Academy, we train the eyes and the brain to work together. When they’re not, a number of problems can arise. It isn’t always about seeing well, but can also be about focusing, eye coordination and tracking. It takes 15 different visual skills to get information from your eyes to your brain.

What is vision therapy?

Also known as optometric vision therapy, it’s physical therapy for the eyes and brain. Since we actually see with our brain, it’s important that the eyes and brain work together to improve focus, eye teaming and tracking. Vision therapy helps people develop the skills to maximize communication between the eyes and brain.

A word from Dr. Wonderling

Dr. Wonderling talks with Mike Hayes on La Crosse Talk (1410 WIZM) about vision therapy. Listen to the interview.

Did you know?

One in four people are affected by vision challenges. Even a person with excellent vision can have vision challenges. In children, this often results in learning disabilities that can go undetected. In adults or people with traumatic brain injuries, it can lead to a variety of symptoms including double vision, headaches, poor balance or difficulty focusing.

How vision therapy works

Vision therapy begins with an evaluation, not just for eyesight, but for eye tracking, teaming focusing and coordination.

If a vision therapy evaluation reveals a vision problem, Dr. Wonderling devises a custom treatment plan. This could include 18–45 in-office therapy sessions, plus home therapy. A commitment to the treatment plan is critical to the success of the therapy. Progress is measured several times during therapy (typically after 6–10 weeks) and adjustments are made as needed.

Specific procedures

Visual efficiency exam/developmental vision exam

This initial exam is a detailed vision analysis to determine the extent of a vision problem as well as how much vision is contributing to the problems with reading, sports and other activities. This session also includes forming an individualized treatment plan and preparing a comprehensive report. The exam usually takes 2–2.5 hours depending on age, problem and ability.

Individual vision therapy sessions

Sessions last approximately 45 minutes with a vision therapist and occur 1 to 3 times per week.

Vision therapy progress check

This is completed by Dr. Wonderling to measure the effects of therapy. Therapy sessions will then be adjusted to emphasize the areas of the visual system that need the most attention. This is typically completed after 6–10 weeks.