The Bridgeport Exempted Village School District has a team of professionals available to provide support to students struggling with mental health issues. The team includes therapists Kayla Dixon and Patrick Britton from Southeast Healthcare, prevention specialists Holly Garvin and Dorothy Matusich from Belmont Student Services, and school counselor Vicki Falcone. They are available throughout the week to assist students with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. The long-term program allows students to receive help from experts in the field.
There are two agencies that provide mental health services to the school district. Southeast Healthcare offers direct mental health therapy services, including individual and group counseling as well as crisis response services. Belmont Student Services focuses on preventive education and raising awareness about mental health. Dixon, a licensed independent social worker, provides crisis mental health services and individual therapy to students. Britton, a licensed social worker, also offers crisis services and individual therapy.
Garvin, a state-certified prevention specialist, works with students in kindergarten through ninth grade. She provides education on substance abuse and suicide prevention and helps students with their social and emotional needs. Matusich is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays to assist high school students with non-academic barriers and promote overall mental health awareness. Falcone, with 30 years of experience as a school counselor, works in the high school building.
The specialists are available throughout the day and can be referred to by parents or school officials. They provide assistance for all disorders under the mental health umbrella and encourage students and families to reach out for help. The program aims to meet the needs of all students, and Superintendent Brent Ripley explains that they have been providing therapy services for six years and have added staff to meet the demand. The program is particularly valuable for students and families who may not have the means to afford these services. For more information, individuals can call 740-635-1713.