Counseling

The counseling program of the Disability Services & Programs for Students (DSPS) offers supportive services for students with a wide range of disabilities. Services may include academic, vocational and personal counseling around disability issues; academic adjustments and auxiliary aids. Counselors make determinations of academic adjustments and accommodations on a case-by-case basis. Verification of disability is required.

Schedule an Appointment

To schedule an appointment with a counselor, call one of our two centers:

Ocean Campus
415-452-5481

John Adams Center
415-561-1001

During certain times of the year and usually during the Fall and Spring semesters, DSPS counselors may be available on a part-time basis at other CCSF centers. Counseling is provided in English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian and American Sign Language.

In accordance with Federal laws, all disability-related contracts with DSPS remain confidential unless the person with the disability signs a written release.

Accommodations

At CCSF, we offer a broad range of legally mandated accommodations, including but not limited to:

  • Modifications of academic requirements, which may include changes in the length of time necessary for the completion of degree requirements, the substitution of specific required courses, and adaptations in the manner courses are conducted or learning is demonstrated. Requirements essential to the program of instruction or related to licensing requirements are not regarded as discriminatory.
  • Auxiliary aids for students with impaired sensory, manual, language or processing skills. Such aids may include taped texts, readers, interpreters, note-takers, tape recorders, adapted classroom equipment, and other similar services or equipment. DSPS assists students with auxiliary aid requirements.
  • Tests administered in such a manner that results for students with sensory, manual, speaking or learning disabilities measure the students' aptitudes or achievement levels rather than the functional limitations of their disabilities.

Examples of Services, Accommodations, and Auxiliary Aids

After a counselor verifies your disability, they will recommend appropriate accommodations to support you at CCSF. These accommodations may include some of the following:

Accessible Computer Laboratories
Located at Ocean Campus & John Adams
The Ocean Campus and John Adams Center Accessible Computer Laboratories are equipped with computers and assistive technologies, including screen magnification, screen readers, text-to-speech programs, speech recognition programs, Braille embossers, and modified keyboard and pointing devices. Training is provided.
Assistive Listening Device on Loan
This is a sound-amplifying device which may be attached to a hearing aid or used separately.
Books and Documents in Alternative Format
Arrangements can be made for textbooks, handouts, and tests to be provided in audio, Braille, large print and etext formats for students with qualifying print disabilities.
Equipment
Closed-circuit TV to display enlarged print and electronic wheelchairs are available on a short-term loan. Portable equipment is also available on loan including assistive listening devices, Alphasmarts (portable keyboards for notetaking), back rests, spell checkers, tape players/recorders, DAISY etext and audio playback devices and adaptive furniture.
Hearing Screening
Available by arrangement.
Letter to Bypass Line
If you are unable to stand for long periods of time, you may obtain a letter to bypass lines.

Lockers
Lockers are located in Cloud Hall and are available on a case-by-case basis. The DSPS office provides a lock which must be returned at the end of the semester.
Medical Parking Information
Medical placards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles allow students with CCSF permits to park in student, faculty or staff parking lots, and blue zones on campuses. If you have any questions, please contact the Campus Police at 415-239-3200.
Preferential Seating
Seating in front of the classroom may be arranged.

Priority Registration
Priority tickets allow students to enroll in classes early. Students unable to register on their own may be registered by proxy.

Readers, Scribes & Test Proctors
Available by arrangement.

Referrals
To services on and off-campus, such as Financial Aid, Learning Assistance Center, Writing Success Project, Career Development and Placement, Independent Living Resource Center and other community agencies. Referral to the State Department of Rehabilitation for vocational planning and job placement.
Sign Language Interpreters
Sign language interpreters are available.

Test Accommodations
Additional time to complete exams, taking tests in a different modality, or other arrangements. Your DSPS counselor will prepare a letter to your instructor verifying your eligibility.

Transit
DSPS loans electric scooters on the Ocean Campus to students who have mobility problems.