Your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as your academic success. If you are struggling or know someone who is, help is available. Below are local, regional, and online resources for students and parents.
Harlan Community Schools Counseling Office
School counselors are available to talk confidentially about mental health, stress, bullying, or other concerns.
Contact: Shannon Dahir (9-10th graders) shannon.dahir@hcsdcyclones.com, Jenni Svendsen (11-12th graders) jsvendsen@hcsdcyclones.com
Myrtie Medical Behavioral Health
Offers counseling, therapy, and crisis services for youth and families.
Phone: (712) 755-5056
Website: Myrtue Medical Behavioral Health
Cass County Mental Health Center
Offers counseling, therapy, and crisis services for youth and families.
Phone: (712) 243-4424
Website: Cass County Mental Health Center
Community Health Centers & Private Therapists
Therapy Place – Harlan, IA
Family Connections – Council Bluffs, IA
Sherri Fletcher Counseling – Woodbine, IA
Heartland Family Service (Council Bluffs / Omaha)
Offers counseling, behavioral health support, and family services.
Phone: (712) 328-5699
Website: heartlandfamilyservice.org
CHI Behavioral Health
Provides counseling and mental health support for youth.
Phone: (402) 717-4673
Website: CHI Health: Behavioral Care
Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health (Council Bluffs)
provides comprehensive behavioral health services in the Omaha, Council Bluffs, and Fremont areas. These services are available for individuals aged 5 and older and include both inpatient and outpatient options to meet a variety of mental health needs.
Phone: (712) 396-6000
Website: Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for immediate support.
Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Information, support groups, and resources: 1-800-950-NAMI | nami.org
Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth) – 1-866-488-7386 | Text START to 678678 | thetrevorproject.org
Child Mind Institute – Online resources for mental health support: childmind.org
Harlan Community High School partners with local counseling providers to offer school-based therapy for students in need. Students are typically referred through our Student Assistance team (STAT), but parents can also contact these providers directly for out-of-school therapy services.
Partnered Therapy Providers:
Therapy Place – Harlan, IA
Family Connections – Council Bluffs, IA
Sherri Fletcher Counseling – Woodbine, IA
How It Works:
In-School Therapy: Students referred by the STAT team meet with a therapist during the school day in a confidential setting.
Out-of-School Therapy: Parents can reach out to these providers directly to schedule appointments outside of school hours.
Tip for Parents: If you have questions about the referral process or eligibility, contact the HCHS Counseling Office.
Talk to a trusted adult: counselor, teacher, parent, or coach.
Use school counseling services confidentially.
Reach out to helplines or online chat resources if you need immediate support.
Practice self-care strategies: mindfulness, journaling, physical activity, connecting with friends, or creative outlets.
If you notice a friend struggling:
Encourage them to talk to a counselor or trusted adult.
If there is immediate danger or self-harm risk, contact 988 or local emergency services.
Do not try to handle it alone—get help from adults or professionals.
Watch for signs of stress, anxiety, depression, or behavioral changes in your child.
Encourage open communication and active listening without judgment.
Know the local and online resources available to your child.
Reach out to school counselors for guidance on referrals or counseling services.