School-based behavioral health services are an effective strategy in identifying youth at risk of or experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder and removing barriers to accessing services. Oftentimes, stigma, lack of access to treatment providers, and transportation issues are barriers to accessing behavioral healthcare. With most children spending approximately 6 hours a day in the school setting, schools offer an ideal environment for the delivery of prevention, consultation, and/or treatment services that help to overcome these barriers. Providing services through schools also supports the coordination of care with regular communication between schools, families, and behavioral health providers.
Stark County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR) provides funding and oversees these services in Stark County schools. StarkMHAR’s efforts are possible through the valued partnership with school personnel and local mental health service providers who strive to meet the behavioral health needs of Stark County’s youth and their families.
If you have questions, concerns, or feedback about school-based behavioral health services, please contact StarkMHAR’s Resiliency Program Manager at 330-455-6644.