Longhorn TIES (Transition, Illuminate, Empower, Success) seeks to enhance the student experience for those who identify as neurodivergent (autism, ADHD, etc.) through self-advocacy, connections and training. Longhorn TIES encompasses TIESplus one-on-one student support services, #NDatUT campus-wide programming and events, presentations and trainings, and more.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity recognizes and celebrates the natural differences in human brain wiring. Individuals may self-identify as neurodivergent or identify with one of several neurodivergent diagnoses, including but not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome, and more.
What if I identify with autism or ADHD but don’t have a formal diagnosis?
No problem! Students do not have to have an official neurodivergent diagnosis to receive Longhorn TIES services or attend any #NDatUT event.
What is the difference between TIESplus and drop-in services?
Longhorn TIES offers limited drop-in meeting support for undergraduate and graduate students who identify as neurodivergent. Drop-in meetings are best for campus and community resource referrals and students can schedule online. TIESplus services are fee-based, more comprehensive, and require an application.
TIESplus services include but are not limited to: pre-planning transition meetings, one-on-one coaching support, group coaching, cross campus collaborations, workshops, and socials. Sponsorship opportunities and financial assistance are available for eligible students.
I’m interested in TIESplus but hesitant about the cost. What should I do?
Apply! Longhorn TIES staff will review sponsorship opportunities and financial aid assistance options during your initial consult meeting. Students interested in sponsorship are encouraged to apply for services with their local Texas Workforce Commission-Vocational Rehabilitation office prior to applying for TIESplus services, however, this is not required. To find your local TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Services Office, please click here. Additionally, UT Austin Financial Aid office may provide assistance in securing financial aid for TIESplus.
Are graduate students eligible for support?
Yes! Graduate students who identify as neurodivergent are eligible to schedule limited drop-in meetings. Graduate students are also eligible to apply for TIESplus, however, sponsorship opportunities are not available for graduate students at this time. Graduate students are also always welcome to attend any #NDatUT program.
When should I apply for TIESplus services?
TIESplus applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Initial consult meetings are available to be scheduled on a first-come-first-serve basis. In general, TIESplus does not accept students for services once a semester has begun. Students who know they are interested in TIESplus services are encouraged to apply as soon as they have been admitted to the University. Current students are encouraged to apply as soon as they identify they could benefit from TIESplus supports.
What does one-on-one coaching support involve?
All student support services are provided by trained, specialized coaches. During your coaching meeting, you can expect your coach to ask personalized questions about your needs before offering skill-building or sharing campus or community resource referrals. Common support areas include but are not limited to executive functioning, time management and organization, social communication, independent living, and more.
What is the difference between Longhorn TIES and Disability and Access?
Disability & Access (D&A) determines eligibility and helps implement reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities at The University of Texas at Austin. Longhorn TIES provides one-on-one support to students who identify as neurodivergent in areas such as executive functioning, time management and organization, social communication and independent living.
What supports are available for neurodivergent faculty and staff?
Longhorn TIES maintains a resource page related to neurodivergence, including resources for neurodivergent faculty and staff. In addition, faculty and staff who complete the Longhorn TIES Neurodiversity Affirming Training are eligible to be added to a Continuing Education Canvas page with more resources and information. Neurodivergent faculty and staff seeking additional support or referrals are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program.
How can UT Austin faculty and staff refer students to Longhorn TIES?
UT Austin faculty and staff who believe a student may benefit from Longhorn TIES can refer the student to the student support services page. Faculty and staff may contact Longhorn TIES at longhornties@austin.utexas.edu for assistance or consultation.
What if I have a question that isn’t on this page?
Contact us! You can reach a Longhorn TIES team member at longhornties@austin.utexas.edu.