Each Wellness Team is composed of two counselors, a social worker, and an attendance teacher, working collaboratively to provide comprehensive support to all freshmen students. Whether it's navigating the challenges of high school, managing academic rigor, or fostering a sense of belongingness within our school community, our Wellness Team is here to help. Our goal is to ensure that every student feels supported, empowered, and equipped to thrive both academically and personally. Through individual counseling, group sessions, and targeted interventions, our Wellness Teams work tirelessly to address the unique needs of each student and provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. As active stakeholders, we encourage open communication and collaboration between home and school. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our Wellness Teams if you have any questions, concerns, or if your child could benefit from additional support.

Mental Health Resources

○  New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center (NYPCC)

■     New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center (NYPCC) is a non-profit, community-oriented mental health organization, licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health. They provide exceptional services to children, adolescents and adults throughout the NYC area.

NYPCC believes everyone deserves access to the best mental health care, and they translate that belief into action every day. From hiring bilingual, multicultural staff who live in the neighborhoods they serve, to staying open 7 days a week, to their ongoing community outreach efforts, They are committed to improving the quality of mental healthcare services throughout the NYC area.

○     Teen Talk Space

■     Talkspace is an online therapy service that connects individuals to a dedicated, licensed mental health therapist through private messaging, live sessions, or both from the privacy and convenience of their computer or smartphone. Users can regularly message their dedicated Talkspace therapists via text, voice, or video as life happens — anywhere, anytime. Talkspace also offers free virtual resources and online classes through Talkspace Go, an app designed to improve teen mental health.

○     The Door

■     At The Door, young people between the ages of 12 and 24 can access comprehensive services—health care, education, mental health counseling and crisis intervention, legal assistance, high school equivalency and college preparation services, career development, housing support, arts, sports and recreational activities, and nutritious meals—all for free.

○     Valera Health

■     Valera Health offers therapy and psychiatry services for adults (18 +) and children, adolescents, and teens (12 -18). Expert clinicians work to support goals and make it easy to connect to the care team via tele-mental health platform. Valera Health’s approach is collaborative and focused on one goal: Wellness.

○     Health Outreach to Teens (HOTT) - Callen-Lorde

■     Health Outreach To Teens (HOTT) is a welcoming, non-judgemental, confidential program designed specifically to meet the medical and mental health needs of LGBTQ adolescents and young adults ages 13-24, as well as other young people in need. These services are offered both at a youth-only medical suite at Callen-Lorde as well as a mobile medical unit that travels to areas throughout the five boroughs to meet people where they feel comfortable. All of HOTT’s services are provided free of charge or low cost (insurance is also accepted).                                                                                                                                          

●     Crisis

○     988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

●     Mindful Practices

○     Meditation: Regular meditation can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.

○     Deep breathing exercises: Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm the mind and body.

○     Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process emotions and gain insight into your mental state.

○     Gratitude practice: Taking time to reflect on things you're grateful for can cultivate a positive mindset and improve overall mood.