Services for Students with Disabilities

The Soma Institute is committed to providing appropriate services to students with documented learning, physical, and other disabilities. Disabled students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities available to help them in order to achieve their educational goals.

The Soma Institute does not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities in either admission or access to programs and activities.

Procedure for Requesting Accommodations

1. Students accepted to The Soma Institute should notify Student Services requesting accommodations.
2. Appropriate supporting documentation, following precedent established by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, should be an original letter from an appropriate professional who is licensed to evaluate the disability. The letter, which cannot be in fax or photocopy form, must be on the healthcare professional’s letterhead and include the professional’s title, address, and telephone number. The letter must also include a diagnosis of the disabling condition, and explain why special learning accommodations are necessary. The letter must have an original signature from the professional and be dated no more than 5 years prior to application.
3. It is important to note that students must identify themselves as in need of accommodations and initiate this process directly with Student Services. Independent arrangements cannot be made with faculty members.
4. In consultation with the President, accommodations are approved, denied, or modified from their original request.
5. The President informs the student of their approved accommodations.

Confidentiality

All student records concerning disabilities are maintained separately from academic records. All information is treated as confidential and disclosure is limited to individuals who have a legitimate need to know. Student Services will notify the instructor or appropriate staff in writing of any accommodations to be granted. This is most often accomplished through e-mail. The nature of the disability will not be disclosed, unless there is a compelling need to share this information in order to provide appropriate accommodations.