All About IEP Evaluations & Essential Support for Your Child

While it is summer vacation and kids are on break from school, for parents with children facing mental health issues, school is likely at the forefront of their minds. Navigating the educational landscape may potentially be more challenging, however with the proper support from schools, administrators, clinicians, and other resources, students and their parents can receive the resources and help they need.

Dr. Catherine McNulty, Ph.D and Licensed Psychologist at C-OATS commented, “Mental health in our young people has become part of the national conversation, with many suffering from Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and other conditions at higher rates. These conditions can greatly impact a student’s academic performance and overall well-being. This means it’s crucial to identify these issues early and work collaboratively to provide the necessary support to ensure students thrive both academically and personally.”

All About IEPs

By federal law, a multidisciplinary team must determine if a child has a learning disability, and is thus eligible for and requires special education and related services.

An IEP, Individualized Education Program, is a written document developed for every public school child who is eligible for special education. To receive an IEP, a student must first be evaluated (either within school or privately) by a team of professionals, including teachers, psychologists, and special education experts. The evaluation involves various assessments to determine the child’s strengths, weaknesses, and specific needs. These assessments can include academic tests, psychological evaluations, and observations.

Once a child is assessed and is deemed eligible for special education services, a comprehensive plan is created to document and address the unique needs of students with disabilities, including those with mental health issues. 

The IEP outlines specific goals, accommodations, and services that the child will receive to support their education.

Examples of what might be included in an IEP:

• Extended time for tests, assignments, and projects to reduce stress and anxiety
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate mental health appointments or if the student is experiencing heightened symptoms
• Access to a school counselor or psychologist for regular check-ins and therapeutic support
• Developing a behavioral support plan that outlines specific strategies and interventions to address challenging behaviors
• Providing a quiet room or area where the student can go if they are feeling overwhelmed or need a break

The IEP is reviewed by the team at least once a year.

Collaboration, Communication & Other Tips For Educational Success

While special education services are mandated by law for eligible students, there are other considerations and recommendations to support students facing mental health challenges. 

Here are a few ways to support your child:

• Practice open communication and collaboration: Work closely with your child’s special education team, which may include parents, educators, and mental health professionals. Working together ensures that all parties are informed and involved in your child’s progress.

• Education & advocacy: You know your child best and as a parent, are their best advocate. Educate yourself on your child’s rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and ensure that they receive the services and accommodations they are entitled to.

• Foster a loving & supportive environment at home: Home is a safe haven for children and parents are instrumental in creating a place that promotes mental well-being. Facilitate open, non-judgemental discussion, partake in activities you enjoy together, be present, and allow your child to express themselves.

• Take advantage of school resources: Many schools offer resources for both students and families to navigate the special education journey. Counseling services, peer support groups, and extracurricular activities can be very helpful in helping students  manage stress and build resilience.

• Seek professional support: Depending on the child and situation, working with a mental health professional outside of school may be necessary. Clinicians can offer therapy and treatment such as evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be highly effective in treating various forms of anxiety and other mental health conditions. 

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health in School

“As parents, one of the greatest things you can do to support your child’s mental health, both in and out of school, is to be proactive. Go with your gut. If you sense that your child may be struggling, don’t wait to meet with the school to request an evaluation or seek support privately,” said Dr McNulty. 

“The IEP process can be overwhelming, but your child cannot get the support he/she is entitled to legally without the crucial step of identifying a need,” she continued. 

With nearly two decades of experience in Special Education and as a Doctor of School Psychology, Dr. McNulty is an invaluable resource for helping parents and young people in Fairfield County and the surrounding area manage their educational journey.

As a clinician at C-OATS, Dr. McNulty provides the following:

• Assessment and diagnosis of psychological disorders, functioning, emotional state, educational ability, behavior, etc.
• Executing standardized tests, clinical interviews, and observation techniques 
• Offering necessary interventions
• Addressing learning disabilities and behavioral issues
• Advocating for her patients’ health and well-being
• Providing comprehensive treatment plans and strategies
• Working with parents, families, educators, and other professionals to support the child 
• Facilitating individual and group therapy sessions
• Acting as a liaison within a family and providing guidance and counseling to parents/caregivers

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. McNulty or the team at C-OATS, click here.

Source:

Great Schools