Brain waves and Backpacks
Brainwaves & Backpacks is the go-to podcast for parents navigating school systems with neurodiverse or behaviorally complex children. Hosted by a school psych and child advocate, we decode IEPs, behavior plans, and district systems—so you don’t have to.
Disclaimer: The information and opinions shared are for general informational purposes only and reflect the hosts’ personal views. This podcast does not constitute professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific concerns regarding your child’s education and mental health.
Brain waves and Backpacks
School Counseling: When Is It a Related Service—and When Do Students Need More?
In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive into the critical role of counseling as a related service under IDEA and how it supports students’ access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). We unpack when counseling is provided by schools as part of an IEP, what it typically looks like, and how it’s different from therapy outside of school.
Plus, we explore key indicators that a student’s needs may go beyond the school’s scope—like signs of trauma, clinical anxiety, or chronic mental health conditions—and how to collaborate with families to seek outside support. Whether you’re a school psychologist, educator, or parent, this episode breaks down the nuances of mental health in schools, related services, and community-based counseling in a practical, accessible way.
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