About the Mental Health Initiative

Another component of the Iowa Behavioral Alliance is the development and implementation of multi-system school-based mental health services for students with emotional/behavior problems. Of particular concern are those youth whose needs are significant and complex. The Alliance’s goals are person-centered planning and wraparound services determined and delivered in a partnership that includes schools, families, natural supports and community service providers. Wraparound will be culturally competent and built on the unique values, preferences and strengths of children, families and their communities. A Mental Health Advisory Council (MHAC) guides this effort.

As the PBS system takes hold and becomes part of a school’s culture, we expect fewer children to experience the kinds of stresses that trigger acting-out, being disruptive or withdrawn, and possibly experiencing suicidal behaviors. Similarly, the MHAC predicts that more students considered at-risk for serious social and academic difficulty will be positively affected when school- and community-based preventive and intervention programs have met their needs.

Wraparound and Other Initiatives • Mental Health Links • Mental Health FAQ