Can a college require therapy before they'll provide accommodations?
I would like to talk to my college disability office about disability accommodation for my anxiety disorder. However I’m concerned because they state on their website that "many disorders can be controlled with medication and/or psychotherapy so that they do not constitute a disability." I’m worried they’ll say I’m not in therapy so they won’t provide an accommodation.
I can’t afford therapy right now. The on-campus health center does not provide on-going therapy. Our insurance doesn’t provide enough coverage to make therapy practical (not enough visits allowed). I know there are community centers, but I’m in a rural area and I don’t own a car. I would have to hire a taxi to get there, which adds up quickly (no public transportation).
Can they legally deny me accommodations because I’m not in therapy?
Posted in psychotherapy office
content rss
August 31st, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Typically they will only provide you with accommodation if you’re wiling to get treatment for your disorder. For example, if you were paralyzed, they’re willing to provide wheelchair ramps but they’re not going to carry you around because you don’t want a wheelchair.
August 31st, 2010 at 7:00 pm
You should check the Americans with Disabilities Act, Sec. 504 regulations. There are many online sites. You don’t tell us what accommodations you want or whether you are taking medication that controls your anxiety. If you are not taking any medication, that could be the logical first step.
If I were you, I’d identify the accommodations I want and then talk to the college disability office. You may be concerned about nothing.