Rochester Public Schools (RPS) is committed to building strong partnerships that ensure equitable access to mental health care for all students and families. One essential partnership is with Fernbrook Family Center, a community-based mental health provider offering intensive, individualized support from early childhood through adulthood.
Free Consultations for Staff and Caregivers
Through its partnership with RPS, Fernbrook offers free mental health consultations to school staff and caregivers. These sessions are open-ended and tailored to the individual or family's needs, guided by the clinician's professional recommendation. This support has often led to students and caregivers accessing ongoing services to improve their well-being.
School-Linked Mental Health (SLMH) Partnership
Fernbrook partners with RPS school buildings to provide mental health therapists who are embedded in the school community to reduce barriers to access for students who may need mental health care. This is possible through a state-wide grant. The SLMH therapist becomes an integral part of the school community and develops strong working relationships with the professionals at each school. For this upcoming school year, Fernbrook has added mental health therapists to Bamber Valley Elementary, Churchill/Hoover Elementary, Phoenix Academy, and is adding additional support to Mayo High School.
Intensive, Wraparound Mental Health Services
Fernbrook is unique in our region for offering Day Treatment services, which are structured, therapeutic programming delivered three hours a day, five days a week. Starting for those as young as three years old, these services are designed to intervene early and reduce the need for hospitalization or residential care. This level of support helps students stay in their communities and schools while receiving the care they need.
Meeting Families Where They Are
One of Fernbrook's most impactful approaches is providing in-home and community-based therapy. Their clinicians meet clients where they're most comfortable—whether that's at home, in the community, or at an office location. This flexible model allows families to access care without traditional barriers like transportation or time constraints.
Lifespan and Inclusive Care
Fernbrook provides services across the entire lifespan, from infancy to adulthood. It offers neurodiversity-affirming autism testing along with specialized care for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients. Its approach centers on lived experience, affirming identities, and creating inclusive communities both in and outside of school settings.
Equity-Driven and Mission-Aligned
Fernbrook is actively involved in shaping mental health policy and access within RPS. They have a voice in the district's budget process and serve on committees to ensure mental health representation. Their work aligns with the district's mission to create equitable access to services and reduce systemic barriers to care.
Whether it's continuing services over school breaks, serving whole families, or bridging broader community supports, Fernbrook Family Center is helping RPS bring a more holistic, balanced approach to mental health in education. To learn more, visit: www.fernbrook.org