SMH Overview
School Mental Health (SMH), housed within the Office of School Health, was established in 2005 as a joint initiative between the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and New York City Public Schools (NYCPS). Its mission is to ensure that every child has access to high-quality mental health resources that promote learning, wellness, and resilience.
SMH brings deep expertise in designing and delivering child and adolescent mental health programming across NYCPS. SMH implements school-based mental health initiatives by partnering with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that operate onsite in schools. As a prevention-focused program, SMH supports schools in navigating the complexities of the mental health system and interpreting the policies that shape service delivery.
Guided by the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and the public health model of disease prevention, SMH develops programming across three tiers—universal, selective, and targeted—and customizes services to meet the diverse needs of students. SMH actively supports mental health initiatives at the local, citywide, and statewide levels, ensuring their effective implementation within school communities.
By managing critical relationships among school personnel, community-based providers, and city agencies, SMH helps schools build sustainable systems that effectively support the mental health and well-being of students and their families.
Our Vision for Schools
SMH envisions every NYCPS student attending a school that proactively supports emotional and mental health needs and connects students and families to appropriate care. Through systemic supports and increased awareness, SMH strives to make mental health care accessible, equitable, and stigma-free.
Why Mental Health Services in Schools ?
Schools are trusted community hubs where students spend most of their day
Onsite services offer greater access, convenience, and continuity of care
A familiar setting helps reduce stigma and normalize mental health conversations
Our Tiered Approach to Mental Health Services
SMH uses a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to address a wide range of student needs through prevention, early intervention, and intensive care. Each school, district, or initiative is equipped with a framework to identify, support, and refer students who need additional care.
Core Initiatives and Partnerships
SMH leads and supports strategic initiatives to expand access to quality mental health services in NYC public schools:
Facilitates the establishment of school-based Article 31 clinics, offering licensure and logistical support
Partners with districts, schools, and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to address technical and operational needs
Collaborates on major initiatives, including the Mental Health Continuum with NYC Health + Hospitals and the School Expansion Demonstration Grant
Develops and delivers trainings and workshops for educators, school staff, and parents
Provides expert guidance and content support to citywide and local mental health initiatives
Supports implementation and monitors utilization of services to ensure accountability and continuous improvement
Access and Cost
Contact your child’s school to learn about the mental health supports currently available . However, please note that:
Most services are free of charge for students and families
For services that involve a fee, your health insurance may be billed directly
If your family does not have insurance, school staff can help you apply for public coverage
For Immediate Support
NYC 988 is your connection to free, confidential, mental health support. Speak to a counselor via phone, text, or chat and get access to mental health and substance use services 24/7/365. New Yorkers can reach out to NYC 988 on behalf of themselves or someone else. Young people can call on behalf of their parents or caregivers, and anyone can call NYC 988 on behalf of a child.
Call or Text 988 to speak with a trained counselor 24/7
Chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat/ for confidential support
Services are available in over 200 languages, with specialized support for veterans, LGBTQ+ youth, and individuals with disabilities