Supporting Student Wellbeing: The Rise of School-Based Mental Health Programs in Australia

Mental health support for children and teens is no longer just a home or clinic issue, it’s becoming a vital part of the school environment too. Across Australia, school-based mental health programs are gaining momentum, offering practical, early support where students spend most of their time.

This shift is not just about responding to crises, but about building emotional resilience, healthy relationships, and lifelong coping skills.

As a therapist working with young people and families, I see the difference that timely, accessible, and collaborative care can make. And it’s encouraging to see schools stepping up as part of the solution.

Why Are Mental Health Supports Needed in Schools?

Children today are growing up in a world filled with both opportunity and pressure. Academic expectations, friendship struggles, digital influences, family change, and even climate anxiety can all impact a young person’s well-being.

According to The Guardian (2025), new school-based mental health initiatives are already helping educators and families manage challenges like:

• Bullying and peer conflict

• Behavioural concerns in the classroom

• Anxiety or emotional dysregulation

• School refusal or disengagement

• Family breakdown or trauma

By integrating mental health professionals into the school setting, students can receive support early, and in a familiar environment that feels less intimidating than a clinical space.

What Do School-Based Therapy Programs Look Like?

These programs vary from school to school but often include:

• On-site counsellors or therapists working directly with students

• Collaborative care teams involving teachers, parents, and support workers

• Workshops and wellbeing sessions on emotional regulation, friendships, and self-esteem

• Behavioural plans that focus on emotional needs, not just discipline

• Referrals and follow-ups with external practitioners when needed

Programs are designed to be preventative and supportive, not punitive. The goal is to understand the child behind the behaviour and give them tools to succeed both emotionally and academically.

How Parents and Therapists Can Work Alongside Schools

When families and educators collaborate with mental health professionals to ensure children are supported across both home and classroom environments, children are more likely to:

• Feel understood and emotionally safe

• Have consistent support across settings

• Show improved behaviour, confidence, and engagement

• Develop stronger peer relationships

For parents, being open to this kind of support can reduce the stress of navigating behavioural or emotional challenges alone.

Benefits of Early Mental Health Support in Schools

When mental health care is embedded in schools, it helps:

• Normalize conversations about emotions and help-seeking

• Catch concerns early, before they become crises

• Create safe spaces for students who might not otherwise access therapy

• Relieve pressure on teachers by offering extra support for student wellbeing

Ultimately, school-based therapy programs are about giving every student the best chance to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

How Hope Prevails Supports Young People and Families

While I do not work directly within school systems, I regularly support children and teens on the Gold Coast through:

• Individual therapy for anxiety, emotional challenges, and trauma

• Parent support and coaching

• Liaison with schools or teachers if helpful

• Psychoeducation and resources to build confidence and emotional literacy

If your child is struggling at school or you’ve been contacted by a teacher with concerns, it can be hard to know what to do next. I’m here to offer a calm, non-judgemental space to explore what’s going on and how to support your child best.

Support for Students Starts With Support for Families

Whether your child is having trouble regulating their emotions, experiencing friendship issues, or seems withdrawn and overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

Therapy can help young people feel heard, understood, and more equipped to handle life’s ups and downs, both in and out of the classroom.

📍 In-person therapy on the Gold Coast

💻 Telehealth available for parents and teens across Queensland

💬 Support for school collaboration and advocacy where needed

Contact me today for a confidential conversation about how I can support your family.