FAQs
Helping Families Navigate School-Based Mental Health Support
​
1. Why is my child acting out in school suddenly?
Behavioral changes often signal underlying emotional distress. ITSCO counselors work with children to understand the root cause—whether it's anxiety, trauma, or social struggles—and develop healthy coping strategies directly within their school environment.
​
2. What are signs my child might need therapy?
Look for changes like withdrawal, academic decline, anger outbursts, sleep disruptions, or frequent complaints of feeling “sick.” Our trained therapists assess these signs and provide personalized, school-based support.
​
3. Does Medicaid cover therapy in schools?
Yes. ITSCO is proud to offer Medicaid-covered counseling and Skill Builders services within schools, ensuring access to care for all children regardless of financial situation.
​
4. What support is available for kids with IEPs or 504 plans?
We collaborate with school teams to complement IEP/504 goals, offering in-school therapy and skill development programs that strengthen emotional and behavioral regulation.
​
5. What if my school district doesn’t have a therapist on staff?
ITSCO partners directly with school districts to place licensed professionals in schools. Ask your district about ITSCO, or contact us—we’ll advocate alongside you.
​
6. Can I request school-based mental health support for my child?
Absolutely. Parents can request counseling through their school’s administration or contact us directly to explore options for in-school and in-office services.
​
7. How does therapy in schools help teachers?
By supporting student mental health, ITSCO lightens the load on teachers, reduces classroom disruptions, and fosters a calmer, more focused learning environment.
​
8. Why does my child refuse to go to school?
School avoidance can be rooted in anxiety, bullying, or trauma. Our school-based therapists help children develop confidence and emotional tools to return to school successfully.
​
9. Is therapy better in-office or in the classroom?
Each child is unique. ITSCO offers both options—our in-school model removes access barriers like transportation, while our Colorado Springs office provides a dedicated space for families needing additional care.
​
10. How do I advocate for mental health services in my child’s school?
Start by speaking with your school counselor or principal. You can also refer them to ITSCO—we specialize in forming partnerships that bring therapy into schools.
​
11. What’s the difference between ITSCO and school counselors?
ITSCO clinicians provide focused mental health treatment, including therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma. School counselors typically focus on academic and short-term support.
​
12. Can ITSCO work with my district?
We currently partner with multiple districts across Colorado, including Districts 11 and 12 and Denver Public Schools. We’re always open to new collaborations—contact us to explore bringing ITSCO to your community.
​
13. Are your therapists licensed?
Yes. All ITSCO clinicians are trained professionals, licensed or under supervision, with specialized experience in child and adolescent mental health.
​
14. Do you partner with Denver Public Schools?
We’re actively expanding in the Denver area and welcome connections with DPS administrators and parents seeking school-based care.
​
15. How do you work with parents and teachers?
Our team keeps open communication (with permission) to ensure everyone is working toward the same goals—building strong home-school connections that support each child.
​
16. What happens in a typical school therapy session?
Children engage in talk, play, or creative therapy tailored to their age and needs. Sessions are confidential, supportive, and structured to build resilience and insight.
​
17. Are sessions confidential?
Yes. We follow HIPAA and FERPA guidelines, ensuring privacy while working closely (when allowed) with school staff and families for coordinated care.
​
18. How fast can services start?
Once we receive a referral and complete intake paperwork, services can often begin within 1–2 weeks—sometimes sooner, depending on staffing.
​
19. What’s your experience with trauma-informed care?
ITSCO was founded to support students facing significant barriers. Our clinicians are trained in trauma-informed practices that create safety, consistency, and healing.
​
20. How are you different from other therapy companies?
We’re embedded in schools. We don’t wait for families to come to us—we go to them. Our mission is access, community, and transformation.
​
21. Can we do therapy outside of school hours?
Yes. Our Colorado Springs office offers after-school and family appointments for continued care beyond the classroom.
​
22. Do you help with behavioral challenges?
Yes. Our Skill Builders program and one-on-one therapy target behavioral issues, emotional regulation, and social skills—essential for school and home success.
​
23. How do you handle crises at school?
Our clinicians are trained in de-escalation and safety planning. In collaboration with school teams, we respond quickly and create follow-up care plans.
​
24. What training do ITSCO therapists receive?
Our team regularly participates in professional development on child psychology, trauma care, cultural humility, and school systems integration.
​
25. Can you provide bilingual or culturally competent therapy?
Yes. We are committed to equity and inclusion and work to match families with clinicians who understand their cultural and linguistic backgrounds.