School-based therapy: JFS KidSuccess expands

Across the country, including in Colorado, the mental health crisis continues to surge—and youth are not exempted from this dire situation. It’s alarming how many children are struggling desperately and need mental health support to help them cope with depression, peer relationships, anxiety, and so much more. 

JFS’s school-based mental health program, KidSuccess, is helping to combat this growing and concerning trend throughout the metro Denver area. 

KidSuccess is an innovative program that places trained JFS therapists and graduate program interns in schools, providing children and adolescents with access to free, quality mental health counseling services. KidSuccess’ unique hands-on approach promotes a supportive school environment for students that fosters achievement, high self-esteem, resiliency, and personal responsibility.

For this coming academic year, we have confirmed 19 schools receiving therapeutic services and two schools receiving navigation/case management services (refugee clients only). Of the total 21 schools, two are private (Denver Academy of Torah, and Embark Education), and two Adams 12 5-star district schools (Thornton Middle/Thornton High--Newcomer center). Of the 21 total schools, six are new, and one (North High) was a former partner with KidSuccess, and is renewing partnership this year. 

Our therapists join each school’s staff to support teachers, children, and their families. They use different modalities, such as play therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (more commonly known as EMDR) therapy, to help students address varying levels of traumatic experiences. It’s not an exaggeration to say that KidSuccess therapists are on the front lines, making a difference and providing the necessary resources for kids to heal. 

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and is integral to overall health. The KidSuccess program addresses this need and prioritizes students’ overall mental health while reducing barriers around mental health to give them the best chance for success. 

Learn more about JFS’s mental health programs today.