Mental health issues among school-aged children and adolescents have continued to overwhelm students, schools and communities. The impacts are far reaching—from academic performance and financial challenges to long-term public health outcomes and societal well-being. With schools being a primary access point for mental health screening and services for many children, the school setting can offer prime opportunities for early identification, treatment, and coordination of care.

Mental health professionals in and out of educational systems can play a key role in addressing the mental health crisis. Still, too many of us struggle to stay up to date on changing diagnosis, treatment, and best practice guidelines in school settings. To promote the best outcomes, providers need guidance on screening and treatment tools, care coordination, referral pathways, and larger systemic strategies.

Our popular course is designed to offer participants the latest clinical information and practical strategies that address current topics in school mental health through a mix of lectures, case studies, lived experience, interactive panels and Q&A. Faculty this year will discuss working with families, supporting high-achieving students, poverty’s impact on developing brains, autism, play therapy, boys’ crisis of connection, effective CBT techniques, the experience of being black in school, measurement-based care strategies, culturally responsive care for immigrant students, pornography, gaming, and more!

Each year we strive to create a warm, energizing and fun learning experience to enhance connection and networking among attendees. We welcome all mental health and health clinicians, educators, school administrators, researchers, and others interested in the development and treatment of school-aged children and adolescents to join us in 2026!