School is often associated with reading, writing, and math, but for many students it is also where they learn how to navigate stress, relationships, and personal challenges. At Educational Service Unit 8 (ESU 8), Licensed Mental Health Professionals (LMHPs) are helping ensure students receive support that goes beyond academics.
ESU 8 introduced Licensed Mental Health Practitioner services in schools during the 2019–2020 school year, beginning with two full-time therapists. Since then, the program has steadily grown in response to student and school needs. This year, ESU 8 supports a team of nine LMHPs, with staffing levels adjusting as demands fluctuate across participating schools.
The primary role of LMHPs in schools is to provide counseling and therapeutic support to students experiencing emotional, behavioral, or social challenges that may interfere with learning. These professionals work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and families to develop intervention plans that support both academic progress and positive behavior. LMHPs also assist with crisis response, prevention efforts, and referrals to community mental health resources when additional services are needed.
While the program originally focused on one-to-one counseling, LMHP services have expanded sig- nificantly over time. Today, LMHPs facilitate psychoeducational groups for students, provide professional development for school staff, and help lead student support and recognition initiatives. They are also involved in risk and threat assessments and participate in ongoing collaboration through monthly team meetings, as well as weekly consultation and clinical supervision as needed.
Beyond individual services, LMHPs play an important role in teaching life skills that contribute to long-term success. Students learn strategies for managing stress and emotions, resolving conflict, com municating effectively, and building healthy relationships—skills that do not appear on report cards but have a lasting influence on personal growth and well-being.
School leaders consistently report positive outcomes from the presence of LMHPs. Administrators and staff have described the professionals as “great assets to our system” who “do a phenomenal job” and “provide great support.” Many schools have expressed strong appreciation for the program, citing its role in strengthening student services and overall school climate.
According to ESU 8 LMHPs, one of the program’s greatest accomplishments has been reducing barriers to mental health services for students. By offering support within the school setting, LMHPs increase access to care, normalize conversations around mental health, and help ensure students receive timely support.
As the program continues to evolve, ESU 8 remains committed to supporting students’ academic success and overall well-being—recognizing that education is not only about textbooks, but about preparing students for life.
