U-Knighted By WELLNESS
Sterling School District is dedicated to addressing students’ social, emotional, and mental health needs. The Mental Health Counselor (MHC) works with students facing challenges both at school and home related to mental health concerns. The MHC assists students in dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem, anger management, and grief/loss. An essential aspect of our counseling department's mission is to provide mental health support and referrals to external treatment services, promoting a healthy lifestyle. The MHC collaborates with a network of community organizations and agencies to ensure a coordinated approach that offers a continuum of care and services for all students and their families. If you have concerns about your student or another student, please initiate the referral process through the student’s school counselor.
Students are protected by federal law, which grants them confidentiality (excluding thoughts or attempts of suicide, physical/sexual abuse or neglect, or threats of physical/sexual abuse against another person).
Other Local Mental Health Resources
If you or your student is experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911
If you would like information, resources or support with non-emergency mental health please click here.
Crisis Text Line: Free text line, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text HOME to 741741
2nd Floor Youth Helpline of NJ – CALL or TEXT 888-222-2228 a confidential and anonymous helpline for New Jersey's youth and young adults. They are available 24/7.
Suicide & Crisis Hotline - CALL or TEXT 988, a 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.
PerformCare partners with the New Jersey Children's System of Care (CSOC) to coordinate the care of your child. New Jersey Children’s System of Care addresses behavioral, mental health, or emotional challenges and provides access to needed services. The contact number is 1-877-652-7624.
- Mobile response stabilization services (MRSS)- PerformCare also has options to authorize mobile response stabilization services (MRSS) to come to your home within one hour of notification to provide face-to-face crisis services. The goal is to stabilize behavior and keep your child at home. Mobile response is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can offer up to eight weeks of stabilization services.
Book recommendations for parents and teens
Wellness Room
The Wellness Room, located in the media center, serves as a private and relaxing space for our programs, groups, and activities.
