During the time that Schodack Central Schools are closed, students who typically receive mental health services in school may have less access to the professionals who provide these services. Therefore, district mental health staff would like to make families aware of the following supports and programs, as well as community-based mental health resources.
Maple Hill Jr./Sr. High School Social Worker, Counselors, and School Psychologist will still be available to support students and families. Please feel free to email staff and we will respond and set up times to communicate.
Jennifer Delaney, School Psychologist – jdelaney@schodack.k12.ny.us
Michelle Stilson, Social Worker – mstilson@schodack.k12.ny.us
Lisa O’Leary, School Counselor (Grades 8, 10, 12) – Loleary@schodack.k12.ny.us
Teresa Hebert, School Counselor (Grades 7, 9, 11) – Thebert@schodack.k12.ny.us
Be mindful that children and teens will take their lead from you on how worried they should be. Modeling calm and good practices can go a long way in ensuring children feel safe. For younger children who may not be able to critically analyze the information presented, it is important to monitor how much they are overhearing (including news reports). Maintaining an open dialogue on things going on in the world and in their life is a good practice for all ages. Periodic “checkins” with your children on how they are feeling and coping is important- don’t assume they will always know how to come to you to discuss concerns or fears.
How Do I Talk to My Child?
- Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource
- Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus
- Social-Emotional Issues: How to Talk With Your Child
- Responding to Children’s Emotional Needs During Times of Crisis
Important tips for parents and other caregivers. - How to Cope With an Anxious Child | Anxiety in Children
How to support children with worries – Pointers for helping children escape the cycle of anxiety.
How Can I Help Myself?
- Coronavirus Anxiety – Helpful Expert Tips and Resources
Strategies to help you or a loved one struggling with anxiety around the coronavirus or with general health anxiety concerns. - Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19
Managing anxiety and stress for parents and children
Ways to Support Kids at Home
- Surprise! You’re Homeschooling! Here are some tips.
- 250+ Creative Ways to Keep Your Family Sane During the COVID-19 Crisis
Mindfulness and Meditation Apps and Resources
- Calm – The #1 App for Meditation and Sleep (free resources also available on their webpage)
- Headspace: Meditation and Sleep Made Simple
Mental Health Support
- Rensselaer County Resources for Emotional Support
- Mobile Crisis Response Team Services
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 (TALK)-Text “START” to 741741
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. - National Alliance on Mental Illness – (NAMI-NYS):
To continue providing support and resources for our communities during these uncertain times, they have established a new temporary helpline number. Please contact: (518) 248-7634. The NAMI-NYS staff will also continue to be available via email: naminys.org. - Mobile Crisis
(518) 292-5499
Emergency evaluation and safety planning. Rensselaer County Mental Health and Samaritan Hospital can assist in accessing. - Samaritan Hospital Behavioral Health Unit
(518) 271-3540/(518) 271-3300
24/7 evaluation and safety planning. Can assist in accessing of Mobile Crisis.