Information Source for Parent/Guardians
Below are a few things we thought you should know related to the evaluation process and how that connects with educational settings. We recognize that participating in school meetings can feel intimidating. We want to equip you with some content knowledge.
What is a School Psychologist
Per The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), "School psychologists help schools successfully: improve academic achievement, promote positive behavior and mental health, support diverse learners, create safe, positive school climates, strengthen family-school partnerships, improve school-wide assessment and accountability monitor individual student progress in academics and behavior. All children and youth can face problems from time to time-related to learning; social relationships; making difficult decisions; or managing emotions such as feeling depressed, anxious, worried, or isolated. School psychologists help students, families, educators, and members of the community understand and resolve both long-term and chronic problems and short-term issues that students may face. They are a highly skilled and ready resource in the effort to ensure that all children and youth thrive in school, at home, and in life.”
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
There are 13 different disability categories as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), under which 3- through 22-year-olds may be eligible for services. In order to qualify for exceptional student services (ESE), the Individual Education Program (IEP) Team must determine that a child has a disability in one of the 13 categories and it must adversely affect their educational performance.
Section 504 Plan
A 504 plan states how a child will have access to their learning environment. A 504 plan often involves accommodations and modifications to the learning environment. A student may also receive related services, such as speech therapy or social work. Students under a 504 plan do not receive direct instruction from an exceptional student services (ESE) teacher.
Individual Education Program (IEP)
An IEP is often more complex than a 504 plan, and provides individualized special education and related services, in addition to possible accommodations and modifications to the learning environment. Students must qualify under one or more of the thirteen special education categories, as stated in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Our independent school psychologists can provide detailed information regarding each plan, including who may qualify and what the eligibility process entails.
Evidenced-Based Interventions
Evidence-based interventions are treatments that have been proven effective through research. Evidence-based interventions are likely to change target behavior if implemented with integrity. Our team has been trained in using evidence-based interventions. At Better Together Psychological Services, if a specific intervention is not working, we change the intervention to ensure growth. We have access to many evidence-based interventions, and we work to find the right fit for each child.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications.
What is Anxiety
Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Many people worry about things such as health, money, or family problems. But anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear. For people with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. The symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and various phobia-related disorders.
Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA)
Youth Mental Health First Aid is a program that has been designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who are experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people.
