Polk County
School Based Mental Health
The Polk County School-Based Mental Health program works in partnership with local school districts. Currently, our program places staff in Central, Dallas, and Falls City School Districts. School-based services are designed to best meet student needs. Our vision is to help all students feel empowered and healthy.
The School Based Mental Health team offers a wide range of services including:
- Classroom presentations on character education, anti-bullying, problem solving, suicide prevention, and social skill development
- Individual emotional support
- Group and individual skill building
- Crisis support
- Parent conflict resolution
- Youth and parent support groups
Additionally, our team brings an in-depth knowledge of local community resources and services to schools. Each staff person is able to help students and their families connect with needed services.
School Based Mental Health staff may assist with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, interpersonal skill development, and more. A parent’s or legal guardian’s signed permission is needed for ongoing services.
To access services by a Polk County School-Based staff, you may request assistance from your school administrator, your child’s teacher, or directly contact one of our staff at the school. If additional support is needed, staff will assist the student and their family in a referral to an outside counseling agency.
According to Oregon law, minors 14 years of age or older can initiate services with Polk County Behavioral Health without parental consent. (ORS 109.675).