Alan Penn Irlen Clinic

- The difference is clear -

Irlen Clinic

Alan Penn - Irlen Specialist

I was personally trained and mentored by Helen Irlen at the Irlen Institute in California, achieving the highest level of Irlen Clinic Director. Utilizing the proven Irlen Method, I assess and provide remediation for adults and children experiencing Irlen Syndrome, often referred to as Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome or Visual Stress, through spectral modification using color filtering.

My commitment lies in working diligently to achieve the best outcomes for my clients, regardless of the challenges they face. Individuals who are struggling deserve the opportunity to experience a calmer, more organized brain, enabling them to engage fully in their work and learning. I believe everyone should have the chance to pursue their dreams and goals, even those they once considered too difficult to attain.

- THE DIFFERENCE IS CLEAR -

Who and How we help?

Using the Irlen method can:

  • Normalise brain activity and symptoms

  • Eliminate visual distortions

  • Improve reading and learning

  • Increase work quality and output

  • Reduce anxiety and stress

  • Increase confidence and self esteem

  • Give a greater sense of wellbeing

  • Restore normal sleep patterns

Irlen symptoms are often exaggerated by the demands of modern life. Intensive artificial lighting, device screens, and the need for continuous performance in classrooms or the workplace can place too high demands on our brain.

Irlen problems can be life-long, changing from childhood into adulthood, and generally cause or co-exists with:

  • Literacy skills deficit
    - Dyslexia (many misdiagnosed with Dyslexia but actually have Irlen)
    - Reading speed, fluency and accuracy

    - Reading comfort and word tracking
    - Comprehension and spelling
    - Handwriting, especially copying from books or whiteboards

  • General learning problems
    - Maths, especially in the areas of tables, graphs and algebra.
    - Other text intensive subjects involving reading, comprehension and writing

  • ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) or AD/HD (Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder)
    - Attention / Concentration / Behaviour Disorders

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder

    - issues with sensory overload, social anxiety, eye contact.

  • Head and eye discomfort
    - Headaches - Migraines - Nausea - Co-ordination - Light Sensitivity

  • Body and mental health issues
    - M.E./Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - Fibromyalgia - Immune System Strength - Anxiety - Diet concerns

Irlen Method

The Irlen Method has two distinct assessment types. It is not essential to perform an initial Irlen screening where it is clear Irlen that a person requires an Irlen Filter evaluation. The key information obtained from a screening can be identified during the more comprehensive Filter evaluation.

Irlen Screening: determines whether or not colour can make a difference and whether the improvement will be slight, moderate, or significant. In addition, you find out all the areas that can improve with the Irlen Spectral Filters. Only individuals for whom colour will make a moderate to significant difference are referred onto the second stage (so, you don't waste time or money).

The Irlen Screening involves a set of tasks that are designed to elicit the full area of physical symptoms and distortions so that Irlen can address ALL of your symptoms not just some. This provides the maximum possible benefit. You will be educated about your symptoms (as most people have no idea what they have been experiencing all their lives is actually not normal). This knowledge is critical to be able to provide changes in all the areas, not just reading, which are affected by visual processing. In the final portion of the screening, the Irlen Screener can identify what coloured overlay or combination of overlays works to greatly reduce or eliminate symptoms and allow you to read easier for longer with better comfort.

Irlen Filter Evaluation: usually 2 hours in length. During this appointment, the Irlen Diagnostician has a variety of tasks that they go through to help determine your individualized lens colour which will calm the brain allowing for accurate and comfortable ability to function inside, outside, reading, driving, and a variety of other activities. Irlen does not just address reading. Irlen Spectral Filters can improve a sensitivity to light, especially fluorescent light, sunlight, headlights, depth perception, providing maximum benefit for reading, copying, maths and other academic tasks. The Diagnostician uses a set of diagnostic tasks that are systematically cycled through and used in combination with client feedback, as well as non-verbal behaviour and task performance to fine-tune and determine the optimal colour for an individual.

This precise tint will be individually added to your lens (with or without standard optical correction) by the lab in California.

For additional Irlen information visit:

How to Get Tested for Irlen?

Those who live in Central England or those who wish to travel are welcome to visit our new assessment facility. This is located in the village of Draycott (DE72 3NB) in the idyllic county of Derbyshire . The clinic is located in an Grade Two listed building within an old mill site which was once Europe largest lace producers.

For London and other areas, home visits are currently the preferred appointment of choice for greater convenience and flexibility; some clients prefer a workplace; school or university visit which is no problem.

You can book a test directly through this website page, Book a Test Page or Contact Us for any Irlen Syndrome advice.

Videos About Irlen Syndrome