Student Empowerment Services

In addition to the mental health services provided by Shenendehowa staff, the district is collaborating with Saratoga Center for the Family to offer private mental health services in the school setting.  This service will be provided by a master-level, licensed clinician.

If your child attends a Shen school where the mental health services are not being provided, it would be the responsibility of the parent to transport to either Shatekon or  High School East to receive services.  Once services expand the provider will be able to travel to the individual schools.

Why offer private, mental health programs in school?

• Convenience for the family and student

• Allows the Saratoga Center for the Family therapist, school staff and the family to work together to build student success in school

• Keeps student’s issues from affecting emotional, academic, or physical development 

• Provides relief from symptoms earlier 

• May prevent long-term problems 

• Improves academic performance and personal relationships with family and friends 

What is Student Empowerment Services?

With parental consent, the Saratoga Center for the Family will offer a full range of comprehensive mental health services in the student’s school, including:

• Identification and assessment of children with behavioral and emotional health needs

• Individual, group and family therapies for crisis intervention

• Consultation with parents, teachers and school administration 

• Parent and teacher trainings on mental health issues

• Referrals to other community mental health programs can be made, if needed

How can my child access services? 

In collaboration with the child’s parent/guardian students can be referred by a school counselor, psychologist, social worker, nurse or building administrator. In addition, parents can make their own private referral. 

Referral Form

Referrals may be made for students that are currently displaying  depression, anxiety and stress, trauma, engaging in self-harm or emotional instability.

A consent form must be signed by the parent/guardian to begin services. Individual student records are kept confidential. Programs operate during school hours and often beyond for family convenience. 

What are the costs to parents?

Parents provide insurance information and Saratoga Center for the Family bills directly.

If not insured, the center may be able assist families in obtaining health insurance 

No family will be turned away due to their inability to pay: sliding fee and/or financial assistance is available

What is My Role as a Caregiver?

If your child is enrolled in the Student Empowerment Services at Shenendehowa the caregiver’s role is:

• Consent for participation in this service

• Attend the initial evaluation session

• Attend monthly family sessions at home or school

• Collaborate with the therapist and school personnel to best support the child