Mental Health in Schools

Description: There has been an increase in the topic of mental health in the news, in schools and on social media, however it seems there is still a limited understanding of the differences between mental health and mental illness. In schools, students are labeled by their diagnosis if they have one or they are punished for their behavior without determining the cause. Many educators have the belief that counseling or therapy is a “quick fix” for students. Some are reluctant to admit they actually need support themselves. This session will include various scenarios which create a clearer picture of the needs within the schools.

CE Broker Tracking #: 20-771389

This event is sponsored by FMHCA, an NBCC-Approved Continuing Education Provider. FMHCA NBCC Provider# 2058. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.  FMHCA is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. This course is approved by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, LMFT, LCSW – FMHCA CE Broker #: 50-748

Learning Objectives:

1. Evaluate the need for mental health education.
2. Discuss the role of mental health professionals in schools.
3. Identify opportunities to provide school-based mental health services.

About the Presenters:

Erica N. Wortherly is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in working with educators and parents to improve their understanding of mental health. She earned her BA in Communications from the University of North Florida and Masters in Social Work from Florida State University. Erica speaks on topics including self-care practices, mental health awareness, becoming trauma-sensitive, and more. As a former teacher in Duval County Public Schools in Jacksonville, a school-based clinical counselor for Children’s Home Society of North Florida, and a social worker, she will always be an educator. She has written three children’s books addressing anger, grief, and anxiety. “I Scream Because I’m Angry,” “Dear Everybody, Admit There’s Hurt,” and "...But, What If..." are used as tools for engaging in challenging conversations with children. Through her private practice and Teaching with Mental Health in Mind, Erica advocates for shifting mindsets to create more flexible, empathetic and comfortable environments for children and the adults who care for them to thrive.