University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown
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Psychiatric Disabilities

Psychiatric Disabilities

Documentation requirements for an individual requesting services due to a psychiatric or psychological illness must be completed by a licensed clinical social worker, licensed professional counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist,
neurologist, or other medical specialist with experience or expertise in the
domain for which he/she is diagnosing.Comprehensive documentation must be submitted that includes:

  1. A clear statement of the existence of a psychiatric impairment,
    including a DSM-IV diagnosis;
  2. A written report of:
    • History of presenting symptoms
    • Relevant developmental and familial information
    • Relevant medical history
    • Duration and severity of the disorder
    • Current treatments
  3. A description of the condition's current functional impact on learning or other major life activity relevant to the academic experience;
  4. A statement addressing the individual's requested accommodation(s), including rationale as to why these accommodation(s) are warranted;

    *Any request for an extension of time on examinations, based on the impairment, should be supported by evidence that
    reflects a measurable decline in pre-morbid functioning.
  5. A statement regarding how the use of medication and/or psychotherapy may or may not mitigate the psychiatric/psychological disorder.
Last Reviewed: April 28, 2005