The “D” Word

Recently I learned that the number of college students with speech based disabilities seeking Accommodations* in college has decreased. My guess is that it isn’t because of the lack of the need for accommodations or because they have not been met with discrimination.  Instead I am guessing that it is because they don’t know that they could qualify as having a Disability (I know!  The D-word), be qualified under the ADA and receive accommodations.

Dr. Gina Davis and I have an article coming out in the next week that is funny and informative on this topic titled, “Everything We Needed to Know about Stuttering in College Came from Mafia Movies.”  We outline how Disability services on a college campus can be helpful.  Some accommodations might include alternatives to some in class presentations or priority registration to find classes and teachers that fit the student’s need best.  Above all else, whether or not the student seeks accommodations, the Office of Disability services can also assist with advocacy, community education, and intervening in case a teacher does discriminate.  For people in the mental health field as well as SLPs, it is important that we bring together our knowledge of the clients or students we see and inform them of their rights.

What are examples of Accommodations that you or your their clients with disabilities or their families have used?

* Information about “Accommodation in Higher Education for Students with Disabilities” visit: http://www.going-to-college.org/campuslife/accommodations.html

Nina G

Wednesday, October 21, 2015