What is a Mental Health Assistance Counselor?

A BRIEF OVERVIEW ON WHAT A MHAC DOES AND THE ROLE THEY PLAY

Students are exposed to external and internal struggles which can impact student success. The Pine Hill School District aims to provide all students with the knowledge, attitudes and skills to cope with these obstacles and develop a healthy lifestyle. Providing mental health support and referral to services is an integral part of our district’s mission in promoting the well-being of each student. The district partners with a network of community services and agencies, creating a coordinated effort to promote a continuum of care and services for all students and families.

The Mental Health Assistance Counselor (MHAC) is a part of our school counseling program. Providing mental health support and referrals to outside treatment services is also an integral part of our School Counseling Department’s mission in promoting a healthy lifestyle. This includes prevention, intervention, support, and referral services for students at risk for substance abuse, addictive behaviors, and other mental health concerns.

The MHAC meets with students whose mental health is keeping them from succeeding both in school and outside of school. The topics discussed with students include but are not limited to anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, anger management and grief/loss. The MHAC also consults with teachers and other school staff on how to best meet students' diverse needs.

Our Mental Health Assistance Counselor is available to ALL students. Students, as well as staff and caregivers on behalf of the student, can request an appointment with Ms. Liz via our referral form. Please note, If this is an emergency where the safety of yourself or someone else is at risk, please do at least one of the following before filling out the form:

- If you are reaching out during school hours, please ask to speak with one of the school counselors directly.

- If this is after school hours please either contact PerformCare's Mobile Response at 1-877-652-7624, contact Oaks Integrated Screening Services (856-428-4357), or contact 911.

Students are protected by law, which grants them confidentiality (excluding thoughts or attempts of suicide, physical/sexual abuse or neglect, concerns of harrassment intimidation or bullying, or threats of physical/sexual abuse against another person). In addition to self-referral, teachers, administrators, parents and peers may refer a student to the MHAC when they are concerned about someone’s health and well-being. The first step of the referral process should be coordinated through the student's school counselor.

Your care for yourself and others, as demonstrated even by reading about this resource, shows your compassion. Help and support are available. No matter what is going on, you don't have to walk through it alone.