Cognitive behavioral therapy in schools: a tiered approach to youth mental health services

In recent years, many US schools have implemented tiered models of support to address a range of student needs, both academic and behavioural, while cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has simultaneously gained popularity as an effective means of supporting the mental health needs of students.

This work provides school-based practitioners with the necessary skills to determine students' mental health needs; establish a tiered, CBT-based system of supports; select appropriate programs at Tiers 1, 2, and 3; deliver CBT using various formats to students who are at risk or demonstrating problems; progress monitor multiple tiers of service; and work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and families.