Mental Health Disabilities

Students may have a wide variety of documented mental health issues, which may require academic adjustments. Such adjustments could include extended time and alternate space for exams, additional time with instructor/tutor to clarify course materials, and tape recording lectures or having a note taker.

Documentation Guidelines for Psychological/Mental Health Disabilities Verification

In order to provide a student with academic accommodations, verification of the disability is needed. The information should be current and comprehensive. Although recommendations of possible accommodations are requested from the professional, the actual accommodations at MWCC must be approved by the counselor for students with disabilities after a discussion with the student. The verification should include the following:

1. Documentation from a licensed professional.
2. Documentation that includes the DSM Diagnosis.
3. Level of severity.
4. Date of diagnosis and length and type of treatment.
5. Last contact with the student.
6. A description of any limitations the student may have functioning in an educational setting.
7. Recommendations regarding effective academic accommodations to equalize the student's educational opportunities at the college level.
8. Medications the student is currently using and any effects it may have on the student's academic functioning.

The documentation is to be given to the counselor for students with disabilities: 444 Green Street, Room 135, Gardner, MA 01440 (either sent directly by the licensed professional or hand carried by the student). Upon student request , the counselor will determine appropriate academic adjustments and make arrangements to provide auxiliary learning aid assistance and support services to students in accordance with their documented needs. Students must make an appointment to see the counselor to discuss and arrange for any appropriate academic adjustments. Accommodations are not “automatic.”