The effort to connect its students, staff and families to mental health services has been strengthened, Walton-Verona Independent Schools officials said.
The school district has partnered with mental health care coordination service firm Care Solace for ongoing therapy, family counseling and substance abuse services.
“No matter what you’re experiencing, there is hope and help,” Walton-Verona Independent Schools Superintendent Matt Baker wrote in correspondence to school district families. “Our new partnership with Care Solace will help us build a healthier, more vibrant school community.”
The collaboration will prove beneficial, Walton resident E.J. Ferguson said.
“It’s a greatly needed resource – plain and simple,” Ferguson said. “Not knowing where to turn for help when you’re struggling is frustrating. This will make things easier for the children, their parents and our neighbors as a whole.”
Families can access Care Solace services via the following avenues, according to the school district:
- Click the Care Solace icon on the school district’s webpage to contact a provider that will meet their needs.
- Call 888-515-0595 for multilingual support in which a care companion will assist with researching options, securing appointments and providing follow up.
- Search www.caresolace.com anonymously to get matched with an extensive list of care providers.
- Contact the school counselor/ psychologist to have a referral submitted.
Providers accepting all medical insurances, as well as sliding scale options for those without insurance, will be made available through Care Solace, according to the school district.
“One of the primary lessons we learned from the pandemic is mental health maintenance is critical,” Wayne White, of Walton, said. “It’s good to have somebody point you in the right direction when you need help. There’s no shame in that.”