ComWell School Counselors advocate for the mental health needs of all students by offering instruction that enhances the awareness of mental health by encouraging social and emotional development. We offer short-term counseling interventions and referrals to community resources for long-term support.
Many children and adolescents face mental health challenges that affect their overall academic achievement in the educational setting. School counselors offer individual counseling to help students resolve personal or interpersonal problems by providing students with healthy communication and coping strategies. We work to reduce truancy and improve overall academic performance by working with students to help them develop more positive responses to stressors within their environments. It is our mission to provide them with the tools to cope socially and thrive academically.
“The services of ComWell are positively benefiting the students and staff in Sparta School District by providing the much need social emotional support to better our school community.” Dr. Gabrielle (Gabe) Schwemmer, Sparta Superintendent
Due to the current pandemic, ComWell counselors are offering telehealth services. If students are meeting in-person, our counselors will go to their school to meet with them. In the event that the counselor is quarantined, several schools have arranged for students to meet with their counselor via Zoom appointments. Our team is currently seeing students in the following schools: Sparta High, Sparta Lincoln, Evansville, Coulterville, Steeleville Grade School and high school, Chester High School, Perandoe, Prairie du Rocher, Red Bud Grade School and high school and Okawville.
“During these unprecedented times our ComWell School Counselors are working diligently to ensure that students mental health needs are being met. Serving students and helping them navigate the uncertainty of his current school year is our top priority.” Janet Wiley, MSW, QMHP
School-aged kids can be seen by a school-based counselor if they have Medicaid insurance or Blue Cross Blue Shield. ComWell counselors receive referrals from the school staff. Referrals can be initiated by the student, a parent or the school staff. We work closely with the school and teachers to determine a time during the student’s schedule that is the least disruptive to their day and learning. Counselors meet with the student for 30-60 minutes weekly or as needed. Parents are contacted once a referral is received for their student and counselors maintain contact with the parent throughout the process.
To get started, talk to your child’s teacher or call Behavioral Health Site Manager, Janet Wiley at 618-282-6233 ext. 186 if you have questions.