2023-2024 Program and Budget Handbook

Psychiatric Social Worker (PSW)

There is growing research and evidence that shows children who receive school-based mental health services demonstrate positive academic outcomes, such as increased rates of high school graduation, increased feelings of school connectedness, higher grade-point average (GPA), decreased absenteeism, and decreased incidences of suspension and expulsion. School Mental Health Psychiatric Social Workers (PSWs) are highly trained clinical social workers that provide a continuum of school-based mental health and school social work services alongside other specialized service providers, teachers, parents, and community partners to coordinate mental health care for students and school communities.

The continuum of services includes prevention, early intervention, and intensive support for students, parents and caregivers, and schools. These align with the pillars, priorities, and strategies called for in the 2022-26 LAUSD Strategic Plan, specifically Pillar 2: Joy and Wellness. In collaboration with school, District, and community partners, PSW staff implement services in accordance with various District policies and initiatives, including the following: • Crisis Preparedness, Response and Recovery • Threat Assessment and Management • Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention • Bullying and Hazing Policy (Student-to Student) • Integrated Safe School Plan • Discipline Foundation Policy In collaboration with school leadership and other key stakeholders, PSW staff assess school community needs. Then, using a multi-tiered framework, mental health and school social work services and interventions are identified for implementation to improve student outcomes. The Service Delivery Plan (SDP) serves as a roadmap to ensure that the services provided align with the needs and priorities of the school community. Examples of services, interventions, and supports are listed in the table on the next page.

The effectiveness of PSW programs and services is dependent on support provided at the school level, including the following: • Appropriate workspace that allows for confidential information sharing, sensitive conversations, and facilitation of intensive mental health supports • Designated time for implementation of universal and targeted interventions, as well as legally compliant documentation and reporting mandated by mental health law and policy • Clear plan for after-hours crisis support, when applicable

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