School-based therapy is essential because it provides mental health support right where children spend the majority of their day—at school. Nearly 1,000 students in the Des Moines metro have benefited from school-based therapy this year. It removes barriers, provides early intervention, gives families the support they need, and helps the student with academic success. Before her journey with school-based therapy, Annie was anxious and depressed during the difficult transition back to in-person learning after COVID. “She no longer seemed to like to do the things she once did, thought the world might be better without her in it, and struggled to focus and pay attention at school and had a decrease in self-esteem,” according to Annie’s therapist.
Annie began school-based therapy her 6th grade year. “It took some time for her to build a relationship with her therapist,” shared Jenna Parker, a School-Based Therapist Supervisor who’s familiar with Annie’s case. “Annie seemed skeptical about therapy.” Slowly sharing her scary thoughts of wondering what the world would be like if she wasn’t here, if her family would miss her, and even ways she had thought about ending her life, Annie received the life-saving support through Orchard Place.
One big achievement in her school-based therapy was learning to ask for help when she was struggling. “Annie has learned through self-care, coping skills, and a good self-care routine that she is able to best advocate for herself,” explained Parker. Orchard Place school-based therapists work closely with school staff. In 2025, Orchard Place had 41 providers in 38 different public schools helping children with their mental health. Parker continued to share that, “By being a part of the everyday functioning of the school, I have an amazing opportunity to collaborate with teachers and administration about my clients’ needs and serve as a mental health expert in the building to provide support and education.”
Students receiving school-based therapy face a wide array of mental health adversities including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, grief, and trauma. Orchard Place has seen an increase and need for school-based services since COVID. “We have noticed the isolation from that period has exasperated school refusal and social anxiety,” Parker said. To curve this trend, it’s important for parents and guardians to listen and be present for their children. “If you notice a change in their mood or behavior, let them know that you notice and you care,” she said. “This could be a hug or a high five on the way into the classroom for a teacher or taking a few minutes to take an interest in an activity that your child loves at home.”
Navigating a student’s mental health is a challenge within itself. To help area schools, Orchard Place provides services, trainings, and presentations for school staff. These trainings provide educators with the deeper knowledge of mental health trends for the youth they serve and provides them with skills they can try in their classrooms.
Developing Strong Futures takes teamwork. Orchard Place providers are on standby to serve the community and help Iowa schools with resources they need to be successful with a student’s mental health. To learn more, click here.
