The Americans With Disabilites Act and it's Affect

According to statistics, there are more than 40 million people in the United States that have a disability. These individuals have a right to participate in various activities without feeling uncomfortable or uneasy. The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a statute that prohibits discrimmination against individuals with disabilities as well as assuring protection from be limited in their daily functioning. As a mental health professional there are several areas of practice which should be addressed regarding the American Disabilities Act; making professional presentations to individuals with disabilities and providing services to individuals with disabilities. The American Psychological Association is working with their members in order to educate mental health professionals as to how to present conferences to a culturally diverse population. Specific adaptations are suggested in order to provide the most comfortable and educational atmosphere for all members of the association. It is recommended that when presenting to a large group in an auditorium type setting that several front rows of seats as well as back rows of seats are reserved so individuals with disabilities have the best vantage point of view for the topic of discussion. If visuals are being used in the presentation, several areas should be noted. The projection of the images should be high enough so those individuals who are seated can see the images. It is also necessary to include detailed narration when using visual aids. Providing large print copies of any handouts when possible is urged. If possible, even a disk or recorded version of the presentation can be made available. During question and answer periods of a presentation, it is suggested that repeating all statements will be helpful to those persons that are deaf or hard of hearing. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing need to be able to have a clear view of the speaker. This is especially true when an interpreter is being utilized. If visual aids are being utilized, turning them off will eliminate any background noise that can be detrimental for the individual who is deaf or hard of hearing to focus on the speaker. Keeping these suggestions in mind when speaking at a large conference, will enable all members to enjoy the presentations and get the most out of the experience. The Americans With Disabilities Act also effects the way a mental lhealth professional operates his or her practice. Some of the physical requirements that need to be done to an office atmosphere in order to comply with the requirements of the ADA include installing a ramp or widening the entrance in order for wheelchairs and scooters to comfortably enter the office. The mental helath professional must also look at the materials used in therapeutic sessions. For example, having braille or audiotape of test materials and consent forms availble for the client that is blind. However, while the ADA may be a government document that dictates what can and can not be done, the mental health professional must go beyond the document and look at his or her own knowledge and skills. Rememering such things as not making assumptions regarding what the client needs or wants due to a disability but always asking the client. Seeking out resources from agencies and organizations that specialize in a particular disability when the therapist does not have the proper information. Providing interpreters, thinking creatively, making physical modifications to the office, and providing training to staff members are all steps that need to be taken in order to provide the best care.

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