Behavioral Health

School Based Mental Health Services

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In order to ensure that students have access to the mental health services that they need, The Foundling launched its School Based Mental Health Services, partnering with public schools throughout New York City.

In each partner school, School Based Mental Health Services staff are embedded within the school community (including on-site mental health clinics in some schools) and focus on identifying and addressing the individual mental health needs of high- and moderate-risk students. Trained staff conducts an ongoing review of those students that have been identified as at highest behavioral and social risk and then works with the school to develop and monitor intervention plans for in-school counseling as well as referral to community-based services.

Our School Based Mental Health Services operate in elementary, middle, and high schools in the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan and are part of New York City’s Community School Initiative, based on a growing body of evidence showing that an integrated focus on academics, health and mental health services, social services, expanded learning opportunities, positive youth development, and family and community supports are critical to improving student achievement. The program works to educate and engage children and parents about emotional wellness and early identification of children and/or teenagers in need of mental health services; promote the engagement of families; establish physical environments that encourage children and families to participate in services when needed; create processes that facilitate prompt referral and access to assessment and treatment; and incorporate evidence-based treatment practices.

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Success Stories

Delany and her Family's Partnership with The Foundling

Middle school is tough for all children of all backgrounds, but Delany struggled more than most. In 6^th grade, her deep struggles with anxiety, sadness, and insecurity severely impacted her life at school and home. She was intensely consumed with worry, and didn’t know how to process these feelings.

When school staff referred her to The Foundling’s School-Based Mental Health program, her outlook began to change. The program, which operates in 20 select New York City public schools, provides students with access to one-on-one therapists and a safe space to explore their thoughts. As Delany began working with a Foundling therapist, she learned strategies to cope and renew her focus – tools that have helped in her successful transition to high school. When the pandemic struck last year, Delany’s younger sister, Melody, began to experience significant anxiety resulting from all the disruptions to her life. This time, Melody and Delany’s mother knew where to turn. She reached out to The Foundling, and Melody was matched with a Foundling school-based therapist who helped her build her own set of tools to work through her anxiety. For the entire family, The Foundling is a vital partner, providing the support and mental tools to move forward.

These sisters and their loving mother know they can count on The Foundling – no matter where their path leads.

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