18 Sep Barnard College 504 Accessibility Services
Utilizing 504 Accessibility Services for ADHD at Barnard College

Overview
Barnard College is dedicated to providing equitable access and support for all students, including those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Barnard offers a range of accommodations and services to help students with ADHD navigate their academic and campus life successfully.
How to Access Services
1. Initial Contact
To begin the process of receiving accommodations, students should first reach out to the Office of Disability Services (ODS) at Barnard College. This office is responsible for coordinating and providing support to students with disabilities.
- Contact Information:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (212) 854-4634
- Website: Barnard College Office of Disability Services
2. Documentation Submission
Students must provide current and comprehensive documentation of their ADHD from a licensed healthcare provider. This documentation should include:
- A clear diagnosis of ADHD.
- Evidence of how ADHD affects the student’s academic performance and daily functioning.
- Recommendations for specific accommodations based on the individual’s needs.
3. Intake Form
Complete the intake form available on the ODS website. This form collects essential information about the student’s needs, academic challenges, and the accommodations they are requesting.
4. Schedule an Appointment
After submitting the necessary documentation and intake form, students should schedule an appointment with an ODS counselor. During this meeting, students will discuss their documentation and accommodation needs in detail. The counselor will help determine appropriate accommodations and support.
Types of Accommodations Available
Barnard College provides a variety of accommodations for students with ADHD to support their academic success. These accommodations are designed to address specific challenges that students with ADHD may face. Common accommodations include:
- Extended Time on Exams: Additional time to complete exams and quizzes, allowing students to work at their own pace without being rushed.
- Reduced Distraction Testing Environment: Access to separate, quiet spaces for test-taking to minimize distractions and improve focus.
- Note-Taking Assistance: Provision of lecture notes or the use of note-takers to ensure students have access to comprehensive class materials.
- Flexible Deadlines: Modifications to assignment deadlines to accommodate the impact of ADHD symptoms on time management and task completion.
- Assistive Technology: Access to tools such as speech-to-text software, electronic organizers, and other technologies that aid in managing ADHD symptoms.
- Academic Coaching: Support from academic coaches or tutors who specialize in helping students develop strategies for organization, time management, and study skills.
Steps to Get Accommodations for Students Without an ADHD Diagnosis

Students who experience difficulties similar to ADHD but do not have a formal diagnosis can still seek accommodations through Barnard College. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Assess your academic challenges and identify areas where you need support. Reflect on whether your difficulties align with symptoms commonly associated with ADHD, such as problems with focus, organization, or completing tasks.
Step 2: Gather Relevant Documentation
If you have any existing documentation related to cognitive or learning difficulties, gather these materials. This may include evaluations or assessments from healthcare professionals or previous educational settings. If you need to be formally diagnosed, here is a list of low-cost neuropsychological evaluation sites in NYC.
Step 3: Contact the Office of Disability Services
Reach out to the ODS to discuss your situation. The office can provide guidance on the steps you need to take and help you understand what additional information may be required.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (212) 854-4634
Step 4: Complete the Intake Form
Fill out the intake form available on the ODS website, detailing your academic challenges and any relevant documentation. This form helps the ODS understand your needs and the support you are seeking.
Step 5: Schedule and Attend an Appointment
Arrange a meeting with an ODS counselor to discuss your needs and review any documentation you have provided. The counselor will assess your situation and work with you to determine appropriate accommodations.
Step 6: Evaluation and Accommodation Plan
If necessary, the ODS may recommend additional evaluations to better understand your needs. Based on this assessment, an individualized accommodation plan will be developed to address your specific requirements.
Step 7: Implement Accommodations
Once your accommodation plan is finalized, coordinate with your professors and the ODS to ensure the accommodations are implemented effectively. Regular follow-up with the ODS will help address any issues or adjustments needed.
Step 8: Review and Adjust
Monitor the effectiveness of your accommodations and make adjustments as needed. Stay in touch with the ODS to request changes to your accommodation plan if your needs evolve.

Maximizing 504 Accessibility Services for Students with an ADHD Diagnosis
At Barnard College, students with an ADHD diagnosis have access to a range of accommodations through the Office of Disability Services (ODS) designed to support their academic success. To fully leverage these services, consider the following strategies:
- Understand Your Accommodations: Start by familiarizing yourself with the accommodations available under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Common accommodations for ADHD may include extended time on exams, reduced-distraction testing environments, and note-taking support. Knowing what’s available helps you make informed decisions about which accommodations will best support your needs.
- Work Closely with Your ODS Counselor: Schedule regular meetings with your ODS counselor to discuss your academic progress and any challenges you are facing. This dialogue is crucial for tailoring accommodations to your evolving needs and ensuring that any adjustments are promptly made. Your counselor can also provide additional resources or support, such as academic coaching or assistive technology.
- Communicate with Your Professors: Once your accommodation plan is in place, it’s essential to communicate with your professors to ensure they are aware of and implement your accommodations effectively. Provide them with any necessary documentation and discuss how these accommodations will be applied in your coursework and exams.
- Utilize Support Services: Take advantage of all the support services Barnard offers. This may include academic coaching to develop strategies for organization and time management, or access to assistive technologies that help with focus and task management. These resources can complement your accommodations and further enhance your academic experience.
- Monitor and Adjust: Continuously assess the effectiveness of your accommodations and be proactive in requesting changes if your needs evolve. Regular check-ins with your ODS counselor will help address any issues and ensure that your support plan remains effective.
By actively engaging with Barnard’s 504 Accessibility Services and utilizing the resources available, you can maximize the support you receive and achieve your academic goals.
Tips for Academic Success
For students with ADHD and other learning differences, implementing effective strategies and tools is crucial for academic success.
Effective time management is essential. Break tasks into manageable chunks, use planners or digital calendars, prioritize tasks, and limit distractions. Tools like Google Calendar, Todoist, and StayFocus can help.
Enhance study skills through active reading, the Cornell note-taking system, visual aids, and regular self-testing with flashcards or apps like Anki. These methods help organize and understand complex information.
Managing stress and maintaining mental health is vital. Practice mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, regular physical activity, and good sleep hygiene. Seek professional support and build a support network with friends and family.
Leverage technology like text-to-speech and speech-to-text applications, organization tools like Evernote and OneNote, study aids like Quizlet and Khan Academy, and time management apps like Trello and Asana to aid learning and organization.
Implementing these strategies and tools can greatly enhance the academic experience for students with learning differences.
External Supports and Services
Executive Function Coaching
Executive function coaching is crucial for students with ADHD and other learning differences, as it helps them develop key skills in time management, organization, and study habits. Coaches assist students in creating structured schedules, breaking down tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and organizing materials, which reduces stress and ensures that academic responsibilities are met. They also provide tailored study techniques to improve understanding and retention.
Themba Tutors offers specialized executive function coaching with a personalized approach to support academic success. Their experienced coaches work individually with students to identify their unique challenges and strengths, crafting customized strategies to address specific needs.
Services from Themba Tutors include planning and prioritization, goal setting, task initiation, and self-monitoring. They also help students develop effective study routines, enhance focus and concentration, and build self-confidence. This holistic approach improves academic performance and equips students with skills for overall life management.
Psychiatric Services:
About Dr. Michael Roman
Dr. Michael Roman, a leading psychiatrist, provides specialized services through his practice, Transform with Roman. With extensive experience treating ADHD and other learning differences, Dr. Roman offers comprehensive care tailored to each student’s unique needs. His approach integrates medication management with psychotherapy, ensuring a holistic and personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Roman prioritizes building strong therapeutic relationships with his patients. By working closely with students, he develops personalized strategies that enhance their executive functioning skills and academic performance. Utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, Dr. Roman helps students effectively manage their symptoms and develop long-term coping strategies.
In addition to individual therapy, Dr. Roman offers family therapy sessions. He understands the critical role of family support in a student’s academic journey. These sessions educate families about ADHD and related conditions, fostering a supportive home environment that aligns with the student’s treatment plan. Dr. Roman ensures comprehensive patient support by involving families in the therapeutic process.
Dr. Roman’s dedication to providing high-quality, individualized care makes his practice an excellent choice for students seeking psychiatric services. His compassionate and holistic approach helps students with ADHD and other learning differences reach their full potential.
Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG)
Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) is a neuroimaging technique that measures brain activity to identify patterns associated with ADHD and other learning differences. This technique assists in accurate diagnosis and developing targeted interventions, such as cognitive training and neurofeedback. QEEG also tracks changes in brain activity, helping to assess and adjust treatment plans as needed. More information on QEEG is available at Themba Tutors.
Conclusion
Barnard College is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for students with ADHD. By following the outlined steps, students can access a range of accommodations designed to enhance their academic experience and help them achieve their full potential.
Whether you have a formal ADHD diagnosis or are experiencing similar challenges, the Office of Disability Services is here to assist you in navigating the process of obtaining the necessary support. The goal is to ensure that all students have the resources and accommodations they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.
We encourage all students to fully utilize Barnard College’s resources and external support services. Our accessibility services are designed to equip you with the tools and support necessary to overcome challenges and achieve success in your academic journey.
If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact Barnard’s Office of Accessibility. We also encourage you to explore other support options, including external resources and services. Your success is our top priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
For more detailed information and to start the process of obtaining accommodations, please visit: https://thembatutors.com/barnard-college-504-accessibility-services.
Latest posts by Craig Selinger (see all)
- Barnard College 504 Accessibility Services - September 18, 2024












No Comments