In the realm of education, the focus on student well-being has become increasingly integral. Barbour Community Health Association (BCHA) recognizes the significance of mental health and is proud to offer behavioral health services to the students within Barbour County schools.
In this blog, we sat down with Casey Jo Cottrill, Psy. D. on BCHA’s Brandon School-Based Health Services team, to delve into the advantages of offering behavioral health services in schools, their impact on academic performance, their contribution to community support, and the measures taken to ensure privacy and confidentiality for the students accessing these services.
What are some key advantages of offering behavioral health services within Barbour County schools?
Our behavioral health providers offer the same quality behavioral health treatment as a community clinic, but with the convenience of sessions occurring while the student is at school. We provide care to students efficiently so they miss very little classroom time and can be seen without parents having to leave home, take time off from work, or find a ride. As a part of the school community, we are also uniquely suited to help students navigate academic struggles and advocate for themselves within the classroom.
How do school-based behavioral health services contribute to improving overall academic performance and student well-being?
Treating a student’s behavioral health and improving their emotional well-being allows them to approach academics from a place of stability where their brain is ready to absorb and process new information. Therapy sessions can also focus on improving a student’s time management skills, self confidence in their ability to complete school work, and motivation.
In what ways do school-based behavioral health services support families and communities beyond just the students?
As a school-based health center, we strive to be involved in outreach and prevention opportunities that target the overall health of our students and their families. An example of this is our participation in the Bright Futures of Barbour County substance use prevention coalition. As a health center, we can help our community and school system understand risk factors and protective factors of various student struggles to create an action plan that sets our students up for success.
What measures are taken to ensure privacy and confidentiality for students accessing behavioral health services within the school?
All school-based centers are held to the same privacy and confidentiality practices as community clinics. This includes private spaces for therapy sessions, obtaining informed consent (express permission) before consulting with a school staff member, and documenting sessions within an electronic health record that the school does not have access to.
By seamlessly integrating mental health support within the school setting, this innovative approach not only enhances academic performance but also fosters a supportive community environment. Barbour Community Health Association proudly offer behavioral health services to students in all seven Barbour County schools, along with treatment of sore throats, flu/common colds, rashes/acne, vaccinations, sprains and strains, sports physicals, well child checks, primary care services, and more!
To learn more about our school-based services, or to get in touch with a BCHA school-based clinic near you, click here.
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