Engaging Families in School-Based Mental Health Treatment

Abstract

Increasing populations of students are unprepared for learning due to emotional or behavioral problems. Yet, school-based mental health services are fragmented, marginalized, and underutilized. Despite the federal mandate to improve all student achievement and an increased ability to identify students needing mental health services, school-based mental health services are noticeably absent from school reform initiatives. The research clearly shows family involvement in school-based mental health services is effective in improving student academic performance. By understanding barriers to school-based mental health counseling services and strategies for increasing family enrollment and retention, mental health counselors can help increase students' academic readiness and the integration of mental health services into the structure of the nation's schools.

Solution‐Focused Therapy: Strength‐Based Counseling for Children With Social Phobia

“…Studies have shown that family involvement in the treatment of children is beneficial (Vanderbleek, 2004;Window, Richards, & Vostanis, 2004). The case illustration further demonstrates the usefulness of family participation in treatment success for children because family members are used as resources for the client during the change process.…”

The President’s New Freedom Commission: Capitalizing on Opportunities to Advance School-Based Mental Health Services

“…School-based mental health allows for the coordination and effective integration of parental support and family involvement into the school setting (Vanderbleek, 2004). The systematic involvement of families in children's care is another area requiring additional training.…”

Training Family Therapists for Working in the Schools

“…In many cases, the school and the family are not closely connected; even more the case with those families whose students are experiencing problems and becoming increasingly disengaged from the learning process. Nonetheless, there is a significant body of literature that supports the fact that it is definitely better for the student when the school, family, and student are working together as a team (Vanderbleek 2004).…”