School Clinical Services
Acenda’s School Clinical Services provide a tailored approach to supporting the mental health needs of New Jersey schools. Our trauma-informed clinicians provide tailored resources and individual, group, and family therapy, available at school or via telehealth. We also provide risk and suicide assessments, back-to-school night presentations, professional development training and psychoeducation for staff, as well as employee assistance services.
We’re here to help with:
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Stress & Anxiety
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
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Trauma
Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process.
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Depression
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
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Behavioral Challenges in Children & Teens
Supporting children and teens as they navigate behavioral challenges in their day-to-day lives.
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PTSD
Supporting you to identify and treat PTSD and other mental health challenges due to stress and trauma.
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Family Conflict
Collaborating with families to better communication and understanding between family members.
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Self Esteem Struggles
Offering support to build confidence, improve self-worth, and develop a positive sense of self.
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Parenting Support
Helping you to create a healthy, nurturing environment for your family and supporting you through your parenting journey.
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Mood Disorders
Identifying and treating mood disorders.
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Grief & Loss
Providing support and guidance to help you cope with loss, process emotions, and begin to heal.
Eligibility
To be eligible for School Clinical Services, you must:
- Be a student enrolled in a school contracted with Acenda’s School Clinical Services
- Be referred for services by your school
- Provide consent for services and release of information, as needed
What to Expect
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Get a Referral
Your school must provide a referral to School Clinical Services.
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Reaching Out
After a referral is submitted, School Clinical Services will reach out to your family to coordinate services within your child’s school.
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Moving Forward with Care
An assigned therapist will reach out to begin the intake process and services will begin as soon as possible.
FAQ’s
How do I access services?
Your host school can make a referral for services.
Do you provide medication management services?
While we do not provide medication management services through the host school, referrals to community resources can be provided.
As a parent, will I need to participate in services?
It is best practice to involve the caregiver in services and sessions as schedules allow. We’ve found that families can provide invaluable support and resources during the therapy process.
How does my child qualify for services?
To qualify for School Clinical Services, you must:
- Be a student enrolled in a school contracted with Acenda’s School Clinical Services
- Be must be referred for services by your school
- Provide consent for services and release of information, as needed
What can my child expect during their first counseling session?
During the first session, your child’s therapist will take time to get to know them, discuss their concerns, and begin building a trusting relationship. The therapist will gather information, answer questions, and work with your family to develop treatment goals that support your child’s emotional well-being and success at school.
How are parents and caregivers involved in School Clinical Services?
Parents and caregivers are an important part of the treatment process. With your consent, your child’s therapist will communicate with you about progress, provide guidance and support, and work collaboratively to reinforce healthy coping skills and strategies at home.
How does School Clinical Services support my child’s success at school?
School-based therapy helps students develop coping skills, improve emotional regulation, strengthen relationships, and manage challenges that may affect their learning and daily functioning. By providing services within the school environment, students can receive support while remaining engaged in their education.
How often will my child meet with their therapist?
The frequency of therapy sessions is based on your child’s individual needs and treatment goals. Your child’s therapist will work with your family and school, when appropriate, to develop a schedule that provides consistent support while minimizing disruptions to the school day.
Will my child’s teacher be involved in services?
With parent or guardian consent, your child’s therapist may collaborate with teachers, school counselors, or other appropriate school staff to support your child’s progress. This collaboration helps ensure your child receives consistent support while maintaining confidentiality and focusing on their treatment goals.
