CMHA :: Your Education - Your Future :: Services for students with disabilities

"Deciding whether to register myself with a disability? I hesitated on that for a while because I didn't want to think of myself as a disabled person."

"Go to your counselors as soon as possible and let them know. Because one thing I've learned is if you start digging a hole and you don't start to fill it in - it's going to keep getting bigger. I wish I went there first year because I just managed first year."

"Having this program here and knowing that there were resources out there to help made a world of difference for me."

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One of the most important contacts you will make during your time at college or university will be the Disability Services Office.* Think of the staff in this office as your partners. They will work with you and support you throughout your time in school. They can:

Help you understand the system and where to go for what services, (e.g., financial aid, academic counselling).
Help you to set realistic goals for yourself. For example, they can help you decide how many courses you should take.
Help you arrange academic accommodations based on your disability.
Advise you on disclosure issues.
Connect you with on-campus counseling, mental health supports and study skills courses.
Provide support and help you put things in perspective.
Help you work out an "emergency plan" - a plan in case you become ill, or find you aren't coping well with school.
Advocate on your behalf and help you advocate for yourself.

It is important to connect with the Disability Services Office before the school year begins, if possible, or early in the school year. This is especially important if you might need to arrange academic accommodations.

Even if you don't think you will need any of the services they provide, it is still good to make that connection early. Then if you find yourself needing support as the year progresses, you already have the relationship established.

Remember: All of your discussions with the Disability Services Office are completely confidential. No information will be shared with your instructors without your permission and no information will be noted on your official record or transcript.

Check it out

The National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) provides a searchable directory of disability service providers at Canadian colleges and universities. NEADS Edlink will help you quickly find a contact name, telephone number and email address for the Disability Services Office at the college or university of your choice.

* Disability Services: what's in a name?

The name of the Disability Services Office varies with the institution, (e.g., Accessibility Services, Office for Students with Disabilities). Some institutions may not have a specific disabilities office, but provide services to students with disabilities through their student, counseling, health or mental health services.