Supporting Teachers Through Consultation and Training in Mental Health

Abstract

(from the chapter) Teachers are likely to have multiple students in their classroom with social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Research demonstrates that students with mental health difficulties often struggle in the classroom with regard to academic achievement and social-emotional and behavioral functioning. In addition to supporting students with mental health difficulties, research suggests that teachers should integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) programs and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) into their classrooms in order to promote mental health and positive behavior for all students. Clearly, the modern job description for teachers extends beyond providing traditional instruction and includes aspects of mental health care. This raises many questions: What training do teachers receive related to mental health promotion, prevention, and intervention? How do they feel about their role as mental health providers? Further, how can mental health professionals support teachers as they promote positive student mental health? The answers to these questions provide reason for both concern and optimism. This chapter begins by exploring teachers' training in student mental health, feelings of preparedness to support students with mental health problems, and desire for support from the mental health community. The remainder of the chapter provides an overview of school mental health consultation as a mechanism for equipping teachers with the skills to address student mental health. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved)