Advocating for Mental Health Supports in Schools : A Step-by-Step Guide

Advocating for Mental Health Supports in Schools shows readers how to advocate for, and achieve, more mental health supports in schools. This timely book takes an actionable stance on the mental health issues schools are facing today, offering concrete strategies on how to advocate and what to advocate for. It contains model policy examples and expert advice from policy makers and practitioners across the country who are leaders in advocacy work. The book is divided into three sections. "Advocacy Truths" orients the reader as to what advocacy is and how to do it. "Policy Making" breaks down the complexity of the policy making process using simple terms and language, making it feel accessible and feasible. Finally, "Levels in Action" provides examples of federal, state, and local policy options to increase school-based mental health supports in schools. This section also outlines the ARTERY Pipeline Framework, showing readers how to systemically create workforce solutions to successfully recruit, train, and retain more school-based mental health professionals. Within this guide, educators; school-based mental health professionals; graduate students in school psychology, counseling, and social work; school board members; policy makers; families and others will find concrete solutions to incorporate into their advocacy work at all levels of policy making.