Self-Advocacy for Students with Disabilities

Self-advocacy is a skill that is necessary for students with disabilities to regularly practice in the school setting. The following will help equip students with information and resources to help increase their confidence in self-advocacy.

Increase Understanding of Yourself

Learning more about yourself such as your strengths and skill deficits is important and will help enable you to identify possible accommodations when advocating for your learning needs. Knowing more about your overall cognitive abilities, learning interests, personal interests, personality traits, and learning style are other areas to learn more about.

  • If you struggle to identify these areas, try asking for feedback from several people who know you well such as a parent, mentor, close friend, teacher, or therapist.
  • Try scheduling a time to meet with someone from your school who can help you explore these areas. Many schools have student services or academic and career services centers. School-based counselors can also support in this area.
  • PACER Center has resources for transition-age students that include needs, strengths & skills, interests, and plans including a comprehensive manual and snapshot version for students.

https://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-a55.pdf

https://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-a56.pdf

Be Familiar with Your Diagnosis

Your diagnosis will provide more information for the types of supports that may be helpful; however, diagnoses present differently in how they impact educational functioning. Knowing your diagnosis and any co-occurring diagnoses is essential in addition to being able to describe how this affects learning and academic achievement.

  • There are some great resources online to learn more about mental health and diagnoses. Try accessing reputable sources such as the following:

The National Institute of Mental Health  https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

The National Alliance on Mental Illness https://www.nami.org/Home

  • Ask your therapist to explain more about your diagnosis. A psychoeducational objective can be part of your treatment plan to help you thoroughly understand your diagnosis and the symptoms that are related to your diagnosis.

Connect with Self-Advocacy Resources

Video modeling is a great way to learn self-advocacy skills by watching videos of others practicing skills. One can then use rehearsal or role-playing to practice this skill. Working with a therapist can help you manage anxiety and use social communication skills. Here are several videos that show a high school student with a disability utilizing their support systems and the Individualized Education Programs process to advocate and communicate:

https://www.pacer.org/students/transition-to-life/advocating-for-myself.asp

Some awesome resources through PACER Center include a sample self-advocacy plan. https://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-c149b.pdf and IEP meeting checklist for students https://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-c268.pdf

Learning Disabilities Association of America is another great resource: https://ldaamerica.org/info/how-college-students-with-ld-can-self-advocate/

Written By: Charlotte Johnson, MA, LPCC

SCHEDULE
MEET CLINICIANS
NEW TO THERAPY?
RESOURCES

Learning How to Regulate Your Emotions

The Impact of Panic Disorders on Social Development

The impact of panic disorders on social development can be profound, affecting relationships, education, and professional life.

Demystifying Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Anxiety attacks and panic attacks are related but distinct experiences.

Understanding the Difference Between Sadness and Depression

Recognizing the difference between sadness and depression is a step in providing appropriate support to yourself or someone you care about.

How to Help Someone Having a Panic Attack

Helping someone through a panic attack requires patience, empathy, and a calm presence.

How to Calm Yourself During a Panic Attack

Panic attacks can be frightening, but you have the power to calm yourself down and regain control.

How to Care for Yourself After a Breakdown

Recovering from a breakdown is a process that requires time, patience, and self-compassion.

Resetting After an Emotional Day

Resetting after an emotional day is not about erasing your emotions but about finding balance and inner peace despite them.

Knowing When You’re Emotionally Exhausted

Recognizing when you're emotionally exhausted is the first step towards healing and finding balance in your life.

The Psychology of Decision-Making

Developing self-awareness about your decision-making style is the first step toward making better decisions.

Emotion Regulation: Techniques for Managing Intense Feelings

Remember that it's okay to seek professional help when emotions feel unmanageable or persistent.

Understanding the Psychology of Addiction and Recovery

Addiction is a complex interplay of neurological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Power of Social Influence

The power of social influence is undeniable. It shapes our beliefs, behaviors, and even our identities.

Exploring the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator

While it's important to recognize its limitations, the MBTI can offer valuable insights into your personality and how you relate to others.

Recognizing the Signs of Depression in Yourself and Others

Be compassionate, patient, and understanding, and remember that mental health should be a priority for everyone.

10 Effective Stress Management Techniques for a Busy Life

Prioritizing self-care and seeking support when needed are key steps toward a happier, healthier, and more resilient you.

How to Set Healthy Boundaries with Your Friends

Learning how to set and communicate boundaries can contribute to more fulfilling, respectful, and enduring friendships.

How Much Impact Do Changing Seasons Have on Our Moods?

The impact of changing seasons on our moods is undeniable, yet the extent varies among individuals.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for guidance and support in managing Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Adulting is Hard

Talking to a therapist can help validate your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Yes, adulthood is hard.

I Don’t Think About My Mental Health

Addressing the root causes of mental health can also be scary but can also be potentially life-saving.

5 Ways Parents Can Support the Transition to College for Students with Disabilities

The transition from high school to college is a big step for students with disabilities.

Self-Advocacy for Students with Disabilities

Working with a therapist can help you manage anxiety and use social communication skills.

How to Talk About Substance Abuse

Remember that recovery is a process, and your support can make a difference in their journey towards a substance-free and healthier life.