Welcome!
Learning at Duke can be demanding, and navigating academics as a neurodivergent learner can bring its own set of unique challenges. You don’t have to figure it out alone. At the ARC, we support all students develop strategies that align with how their brain works best. Our team is here to help you build systems, strengthen habits, and thrive.
Our Approach to Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity encompasses the multitude of ways peoples brains work. Terms such as neurodivergent, attention differences, and learning differences reflect some of the diverse ways students experience learning, and help call out specific spaces and support we provide. Our focus is on practical strategies, mindset shifts, and academic well-being. No judgment—just practical strategies and a space to reflect and learn.
What Support Is Available for Neurodivergent Students?
You might benefit from working with us if you’re:
- Looking for new ways to stay organized and manage your time
- Navigating focus, attention, ADHD, or other executive functioning challenges
- Seeking study strategies that align with how you process information
- Feeling overwhelmed by course demands or transitions, or just everything
- Exploring how sensory preferences, memory, or learning differences impact your academic experience
- Looking for a space where how you learn is understood and affirmed
If you'd like to make an appointment to meet and talk with one of our learning consultants, you can do that here.
Check out our resources where you will find articles and information on learning and strategies for managing college with ADHD, ND or LD challenges, and for strategies and tools for Time Management, general Study Strategies, and preparing for Exams.
Students can meet with any learning consultant including our Learning Consultant, Neurodiversity Specialist who provides individual academic support services for students with learning disabilities and other psychological and/or neuro-cognitive difficulties (e.g., ADHD, executive function challenges, and psychological challenges that impacting learning). As part of the initial learning consultation, students will explore strategies they can immediately implement regardless of testing and/or diagnosis, and will be directed to the appropriate resource as necessary. Students will be able to meet as often as each week with a learning consultant for support with both course specific challenges and tailored learning strategies.
Students who are seeking an ADHD evaluation may contact the CAPS Referral Services Coordinator for a list of local providers who accept Duke insurance, or they may visit their primary care doctor or psychiatrist. Students are strongly encouraged to contact the Student Disability Access Office (SDAO) to confirm the requirements for accommodations and for information related to their unique situations. The Duke Psychology Clinic is a campus resource for a limited number of students seeking services for a range of psychological and adjustment difficulties.
If you’re not sure where to start or have questions, please email us or give us a call — we are happy to answer any of your questions!
Faculty & Instructors
If you are teaching, there can many questions around how to best support students with a wide range of learning needs. The ARC is a resource for you, too. We’re available to:
- Talk through how to support students navigating executive functioning, attention, or learning differences
- Connect you with tools to make your courses more accessible and effective for all learners
- Support students navigating attention, executive functioning, and processing differences
- Share tools and practices that enhance access and learning for all students
We invite you to contact us — we would be happy to talk to you!
