Program Highlight: Elementary School-Based Mental Health
Caroline PinheiroAt arc programs, we are dedicated to creating thriving communities and supporting the mental health and well-being of students across School District #23 (SD23). Our Elementary School-Based Mental Health Programs are designed to provide personalized counselling to students that are elementary school-aged. By meeting kids and youth where they are and offering flexible, creative solutions, we help them build resilience, manage stress, and navigate emotional challenges. In this post, we’ll highlight the incredible work being done in our Elementary School-Based Mental Health Programs.
The Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program, directed by Kristen Lawrance-Brown, Program Director for Elementary School-Based Mental Health Services, has been an incredible success in supporting the mental well-being of students in SD23. We are extremely proud of the partnership between arc programs and SD23, which ensures that all children who could benefit from counselling have low-barrier access to support. By working closely with elementary school staff, the program creates a wraparound approach to meet the unique needs of each child. Kristen shares that “it is so meaningful to walk alongside children as they learn about themselves and become more curious about the world around them. The collaboration with SD23 allows us to truly support children in a way that helps them thrive emotionally, socially, and academically”.
What is the Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program?
The Elementary School-Based Mental Health (E-SBMH) Program at arc programs began in 2014, starting with a single school and growing to serve all elementary schools in SD23. Last year, we were able to provide counselling services to 228 students, helping them improve their emotional and mental well-being.
The team takes pride in providing individualized, creative approaches to meet each student’s unique needs. This isn’t “cookie-cutter” counselling; we understand that every child is different and requires different strategies for emotional support. Our counsellors use a variety of techniques to help students express themselves, manage their emotions, and improve their mental health.
In the counselling room, you might see students drawing out their “worry monsters” to externalize their anxiety, creating word collages to express their feelings, playing Jenga to build somatic awareness, practicing mindfulness through walks, or simply having a safe space to talk.
Why Choose the Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program?
- The arc programs ESBMH Program offers many benefits for students facing emotional and mental health challenges. Some key reasons to choose this program include:
- Tailored Support: Our counsellors meet students where they are and create personalized counselling plans based on the child’s needs, ensuring that each student receives the best care possible.
- Flexible Counselling Approaches: We use creative activities like art, mindfulness, and games to help students express their feelings and develop coping strategies in a way that resonates with them.
- A Safe and Supportive Space: The program provides a trusted environment where students can speak freely and receive the emotional support they need to thrive. As one student put it: “They are safe people in the school for youth to connect with.”
- Improved Mental Health and Social Skills: Students gain the tools they need to manage anxiety, stress, and emotional struggles, ultimately improving their social and academic functioning. As one student shared, “I smile more, and I laugh more” after participating in the program.
The Story of Lizzy and Zoe: A Creative Approach to Counselling
One of the most unique and heartwarming aspects of our Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program is the story of Lizzy, the therapy pet brought to life by our counsellor, Zoe Betzelt. Lizzy is a colorful, stuffed lizard who plays a key role in helping students feel more comfortable and open during their counselling sessions.
For many kids, the idea of talking to a counsellor can feel intimidating, but Lizzy breaks the ice in a fun, approachable way. She helps students feel safer and more at ease—creating a space where they can talk freely and share their feelings. Whether she’s offering comfort, asking questions, or simply sitting by their side, Lizzy is the perfect companion for students in need of a little extra support.
Zoe explains, “Lizzy is more than just a stuffed animal; she helps kids feel like they’re talking to a friend. Sometimes, that little bit of comfort is all it takes to help a student open up.”
Here’s some feedback we’ve received from students in the program:
“They are safe people in the school for youth to connect with.”
“She talks to me about my feelings, and in my life, I need that kind of person.”
“I smile more, and I laugh more.”
By meeting students where they are at, through therapy pets like Lizzy, engaging activities, and a whole lot of heart, we’re able to support their mental health journey in a way that feels safe, fun, and empowering.
How to Access the Services
The Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program is a Restricted Access Program, meaning that services are available only to students who are referred by their school’s team of counsellors and staff. If your child’s school feels they would benefit from the program, they will make a referral to arc programs.
If you’re interested in learning more about this program or other school-based programs that we offer, such as our Secondary School-Based Mental Health, Substance Use and Concurrent Programs, please visit the arc programs website for additional information.
Community Highlight
In December 2024, Chase Witzel showcased the impact of the Elementary School-Based Mental Health Program through an article published by School District #23 virtual magazine. Highlighting Lizzy, our beloved therapy pet, and the invaluable work of the program, the article offers a heartwarming perspective on how this initiative is transforming the lives of young students.
At arc programs, we are committed to providing accessible, compassionate, and effective mental health support to students. We are also grateful for the opportunity to support and watch our community trive.
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