Mental Health Liaison

Mental Health Liaisons are school-based professionals who will coordinate the individual school-based mental health programs.

Beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, as a result of funding from a local referendum, every school in Lake County now has a dedicated Mental Health Liaison. The Mental Health Liaison provides site-based support and assistance to school communities regarding best practices in mental wellness, identifying students at-risk for mental health challenges, and appropriately referring students with high/severe needs.

Primary roles and responsibilities include:

Intervention

Coordinating school-based mental health services across all tiers of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework
Providing direct services with students, such as individual and group counseling

Collaboration

Participating in problem solving meetings for students at-risk for mental health challenges
Collaborating with district and school-based mental health professionals in the problem solving process in regards to mental health/wellness
Working with Lifestream and other community agencies to provide wraparound services to students when a higher level of care is needed

Professional Development

Providing school level professional development regarding mental wellness and interventions

Crisis Intervention

Coordinating crisis intervention and prevention for the school community

Parent and Community Awareness

Building bridges with families and community agencies to build relationships and make connections to resources
Providing outreach to parents and community members regarding mental wellness and protective factors

Program Development

Developing, implementing and monitoring school procedures, in coordination with school-based leadership, to ensure compliance with district Mental Health Plan
Gathering data to help identify students in need of help and ensure program effectiveness