Navigating Healthcare & School Systems

Supporting a young person’s mental wellness is a team effort. Learn what types of healthcare and school resources are available and how to navigate these key systems.

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Healthcare resources for youth mental health

Seeking mental health support for a young person through the healthcare system can feel overwhelming at first, but there are clear paths forward. The good news is that many qualified healthcare professionals specialize in supporting youth mental wellness.

Healthcare providers such as pediatricians often serve as a first point of contact and can connect you with specialized mental health professionals—from psychiatrists and psychologists to counselors and social workers. Each brings unique expertise and can provide different types of care, from diagnostic assessments to therapy and medication management when needed.

We'll help you understand the various types of mental health providers, what services they offer, and how to find the right care team for your needs. With the right information, you can feel more confident in taking the first steps toward getting young people the healthcare support they need.

Finding Mental Health Resources

HIPAA and Privacy for Minors

Insurance Coverage

School resources for youth mental health

Many young people spend a significant part of their day at school, making school systems a vital partner in supporting mental wellness. Schools often provide various mental health resources—from counselors and psychologists to social workers and special education services—though available support can vary by district and school.

School-based mental health professionals can offer valuable services like individual counseling, crisis support, and behavioral assessments. They can also help coordinate with healthcare providers and advocate for accommodations when needed. Some schools provide services directly, while others connect families with community resources.

Explore information about what mental health resources might be available through your school system, how to access them, and ways to work effectively with school staff to support a young person's mental wellness. You'll discover different types of school-based support and how to advocate for the services your child needs.

Understanding School Resources for Mental Health

504 Plans and IEPs

“Both in the healthcare setting and at school, you really have to paint a picture. My child’s provider once casually mentioned that my child might need a blood test at some point which inadvertently spiked his anxiety. I sent a message to the provider letting him know we were dealing with the fallout of his comment. As a parent and advocate for my child, it’s my responsibility to make the provider aware of this because how else would they know, and it drives home in a much more concrete way what anxiety looks like.”

— submitted by a Parent

For Parents & Caregivers

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Mental Wellness Basics

Why mental wellness is important, and how to get help for yourself, your child, or another young person.

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Building a Strong Family System

How to talk with and support everyone in a family when one member is struggling.

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Giving & Getting Support

Learn ways to support a young person and get emotional and practical support for yourself, too.