A Psychological disability is defined as a persistent psychological or psychiatric
disorder, emotional or mental illness that adversely affects educational performance.
A Psychological disability is a condition which:
Is listed in the most current
American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM),
and is coded on Axis I or II as moderate to severe,
Reflects a psychiatric or
psychological condition that interferes with a major life activity, and
Poses a functional limitation
in the educational setting.
Recovering drug and alcohol abusers are considered as having a psychological disability as long as they are in or have completed a recovery program and meet all other conditions for this disability category.
Eligibility For Services
A psychological disability can be verified by a licensed clinical psychologist
or psychiatrist, a licensed medical doctor, a licensed Marriage, Family, and
Child Counselor, or a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Verification documents should include
the DSM and/or ICD disorder code or the name of the disorder plus description
of the condition as moderate to severe.