Getting Started

Our Collaborative has gathered the resources and tools you need to expand School Based Behavioral Health (SBBH) services at your school. Here’s how to get started:

Step

1

Learn the Basics

  • Familiarize yourself with the range of school-based behavioral health services.
  • Understand why schools are well-equipped to provide behavioral health services.
  • Find school leaders, counselors, social workers, students, parents, and community behavioral health providers who can help expand behavioral health services at your school.

Step

2

Assess Needs
and Resources

  • Identify existing behavioral health services at your school, along with areas of greatest need.
  • Gather data on the most common behavior challenges – use of disciplinary suspensions, consult the Georgia Student Health Survey and view the Program Map.
  • Research community resources that could partner with the school to offer provide health services.

Step

3

Identify Services
that Fit the Need

  • Review these examples of service program models.
  • Evaluate options based on the school’s needs, provider availability, and funding opportunities.

Step

4

Seek Community
Support and Funding

  • Use the Program Map to find other schools who have implemented your desired services. Ask them how they got started.
  • Connect with existing and potential supporters – including families, school administrators, health providers, policymakers and local leaders.
  • Identify various funding sources who might support your chosen model.