A Back-to-School Note for School-Based Mental Health Providers

As the new school year begins, we want to recognize the important role you play in helping students feel supported, understood, and ready to learn.

Thank you for bringing consistency and care to your school communities. The start of the year often comes with new students, changing needs, and full schedules. Your presence helps create stability during that transition.

A Few Reminders for the Year Ahead

You do not need to have everything figured out on the first day. Give yourself time to settle in, adjust, and prepare for the school year ahead.

• Your presence matters: even before the first session or check-in, students benefit from knowing there is someone available to listen and help.
• Take care of yourself: whether that means a quiet moment between sessions, a walk outside, or time to connect with a colleague.

The impact of this work is not always immediate or visible, but it is meaningful. We hope the year ahead brings strong partnerships, steady progress, and moments that remind you why this work matters.

With appreciation,

Jen Athanacio, LMFT, PPS
Head of Product Education and Partnerships

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