School-based mental health services are available for students identified by their school as needing additional support beyond what the school offers as part of their education system. 

Our school-based therapists provide counseling services onsite in the school setting, removing barriers of access for children and families. 

With early identification, evaluation, and treatment, children and adolescents living with mental illness can achieve success in family life, school, and work.

Mental Health Issues Among Students

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the critical role that mental health plays in the overall well-being and academic success of students. Schools are no longer just centers for academic learning; they have also become hubs for promoting mental health and emotional well-being among students.

School-based mental health programs provide support, early intervention, and resources to address the psychological needs of students.

Mental health issues among students in the U.S. have reached concerning levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in five children and adolescents experience a mental health disorder each year. This translates to millions of young Americans struggling with conditions such as anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and more.

Mental health issues not only affect students' emotional well-being but also have a direct impact on their academic performance.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that mental health disorders can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory, and learning, hindering students from reaching their full academic potential. As a result, untreated mental health challenges can contribute to lower grades, reduced attendance, and increased risk of dropping out of school.

The Role of School-Based Mental Health Programs

Early Intervention and Prevention: School-based mental health programs offer a unique opportunity for early identification and intervention. With regular screenings and trained professionals on-site, schools can identify at-risk students and provide timely support, preventing more significant problems from developing.

Reducing Stigma and Increasing Help-Seeking: By integrating mental health services within the school setting, students are more likely to seek help when needed. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reveals that school-based mental health initiatives can play a vital role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging students to openly discuss their struggles and seek support.

Enhancing Resilience and Coping Skills: School-based mental health programs not only address existing issues but also focus on building resilience and coping skills. These essential life skills empower students to navigate challenges effectively, promoting better mental well-being throughout their lives.

Creating Safe and Supportive Environments: Schools that prioritize mental health cultivate a safe and supportive environment where students feel valued, heard, and understood. This positive school climate fosters a sense of belonging, which is crucial for students' overall emotional health.

Positive Impact on Academic Performance: Numerous studies demonstrate the positive correlation between mental health support in schools and improved academic outcomes. When students' mental health needs are addressed, they are better able to focus on their studies, leading to increased engagement and academic success.

Our School-Based Mental Health Therapists are available at the following locations:

Cannon Falls Public Schools
Cannon Falls Elementary School
- Rachel Petersen, MSW, LGSW
Cannon Falls Middle/High School
- Rachel Maley, MSW, LICSW

Chatfield Public Schools
Chatfield Elementary School
-Kylie Ramaker, MSW, LGSW

Kasson-Mantorville Schools
Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School
- Deb Stone-Nelson, MSW, LICSW
Kasson-Mantorville Middle School
- Ian Karow, MA, LPCC
Kasson-Mantorville High School
- Ian Karow, MA, LPCC

Kenyon Wannamingo Schools
- Elyse Baker MSW, LGSW

Lake City Schools
Bluff View Elementary School
- Emily Patten, MSW, LGSW
Lincoln Secondary School
- Ian Karow, MA, LPCC

Plainview, Elgin, Millville School District
- Deb Stone-Nelson, MSW, LICSW

Rochester Public Schools
Dakota Middle School
- Roxanna Aldrete MSW, LGSW
Gibbs Elementary School
- Marley Strand MSW, LGSW
Overland Elementary School
- Roxanna Aldrete MSW, LGSW
- Marley Strand MSW, LGSW
Sunset Terrace Elementary School
- Kathy Woods, MSW, LGSW