Psychiatric Disabilities

A psychiatric disability is a diagnosed mental health condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, or performing essential job functions. Psychiatric disabilities may include depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Available services are based on a psychiatric evaluation and written certification of eligibility for accommodations. Individuals will work closely with Ability Access Specialists to develop academic, employment and personal success strategies.

Jennifer Montague

Ability Access Specialist: Psychiatric (mental health)

Contact Jennifer Montague

(517) 355-4180

Schedule an appointment

Colleen Floyd

Ability Access Specialist: Neurodivergence (psychiatric/mental health, learning disabilities, & ADHD)

Contact Colleen Floyd

517-884-1917

Schedule an appointment

Jessica Lutz

Ability Access Specialist: Neurodivergence (psychiatric/mental health, learning disabilities, & ADHD)

Contact Jessica Lutz

517-884-1904

Schedule an appointment

James Madaski

Ability Access Specialist: Neurodivergence (psychiatric/mental health, learning disabilities, & ADHD)

Contact James Madaski

517-884-1911

Schedule an appointment

Helpful Links

Resources

Campus Mental Health Resources

MSU Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS, is the place on campus for students seeking help for a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress management, homesickness, adjustment or acculturation, relationships, gender identity and sexual orientation (LBGTQ) concerns, substance abuse, trauma, eating or body image concerns, and other personal mental health concerns.

MSU Center for Survivors: Provides counseling, advocacy, and support groups to MSU students.

MSU Employee Assistance Program (EAP): EAP is a confidential counseling service provided at no cost to MSU faculty, staff, retirees, graduate student employees, and their families.

MSU Psychological Clinic: The MSU Psychological Clinic offers a wide range of therapy and assessment services. 

MSU Psychiatry Clinic: The Department of Psychiatry is part of the MSU HealthTeam and provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for adults, adolescents, children, college students, young adults, and the elderly with a wide variety of mental health disorders.

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is a valuable resource to find local mental health providers, therapists, psychiatrists, treatment centers, and support groups.

Other Resources

 

Getting Involved on Campus

Frequently Asked Questions

Will RCPD inform my professors about my accommodations?

Once registration steps are completed with the RCPD, the student receives an accommodation letter. Students are responsible for presenting this letter to each professor at the start of the semester during office hours. It is important to go over the letter to coordinate accommodations.

What accommodations will I receive for my disability?

Each person and setting is unique and needs will vary. Accommodations are determined during a confidential needs assessment with an Ability Access Specialist.

How do I make arrangements to have my service or assistance animal on campus?

Students and employees with a disability who wish to utilize a service or assistance animal on campus should reference the Service Animal Policy page.

How does MSU facilitate note taking services?

Students work with their Ability Access Specialist to identify an individualized solution. Solutions often include: technology assisting independent note taking, shared notes with a peer, or other approaches. Visit our Note Taking Assistance guidelines for an overview of possibilities.

Will I receive the same accommodations that I got in high school?

Upon registering with RCPD, you will talk to an Ability Access Specialist about the appropriate accommodations for your disability during an individualized needs assessment. While RCPD takes historical accommodations into consideration, the college environment has different demands that may shape essential functions and accommodations. Visit our Future Students page for information about coming to Michigan State University.

I'm having trouble in my class, where can I find tutoring?

First, talk to your professor during office hours for ideas on how to succeed in the class. The Neighborhood Student Success Collaborative (NSSC) also offers a variety of resources and supports.

What if I disagree with the disability determination or level of accommodation I receive?

RCPD Specialists are committed to an active partnership with students and employees who make reasonable accommodation requests through our office. In the case you experience a disagreement regarding disability determination or appropriateness of accommodations, you may consider taking the steps outlined in our dispute resolution process.

What campus organizations focus on disability issues? 

Several organizations on campus exist including:

To learn more about CSD, Tower Guard, and the Adaptive Sports & Recreation Club, please visit Department of Student Life's Registered Student Organizations or contact your RCPD Ability Access Specialist.