An innovative and sustainable approach to delivering school-based mental health and wellness services

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the development of the Integrative School Based Mental Health Services (“ISBMHS”) Model, an initiative for delivering school-based mental health services (SBMHS) in educational settings. This model is implemented through a collaborative partnership between the County Office of Education (COE) and the local Department of Health Services, which grants schools Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) status to access Medicaid and sustain SBMHS. Researchers conducted interviews with 23 key stakeholders (i.e., COE leaders, school-based clinicians, county health partners, and school administrators) to understand the model's development. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: 1) leveraging a multi-tiered approach for systemic change, 2) prioritizing equity to address disparities in mental health care access, 3) utilizing innovative financing to bridge education and health sectors, and 4) building relationships and trust to facilitate cross-system partnerships. The model seeks to provide schools with a holistic approach to transform mental health care in schools.