Reed Behavioral Health aims to enhance students’ understanding of their mental and chemical health by providing direct services in schools, thereby reducing reliance on maladaptive coping mechanisms. Mental health issues frequently coexist with substance use, necessitating an integrated approach to address the individual holistically. Unfortunately, the stigma associated with mental and chemical health often deters individuals from seeking help. By being present in schools, we actively diminish the taboo surrounding these issues. Through our school-based services, we strive to combat stigma by fostering open conversations about maladaptive coping behaviors and substance use.
All students referred to Reed Behavioral Health’s Dual Licensed Therapists will be assessed using the MN 245G Comprehensive Assessment (Comp), formerly known as Rule 25. The Comp looks at the presenting problem based on self-reports, collateral, and biopsychosocial history. Within the Comp, there are different areas (dimensions) in the student’s life that will be scored. The score determines the level of deficit in each dimension and informs the clinical recommendation according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). The ASAM score is something that can be reassessed at any time to show the individual student’s growth. Additionally, we utilize Brief Addiction Monitor (BAM). This 17-item self-reported questionnaire measures the average of a student’s health, alcohol, and drug use. These scores track student’s progress from the initial meeting through the end of the school year.
Currently, our school-based services are being utilized in two school districts in middle and high school environments. At these locations, we are observing a significant demand for a comprehensive approach to mental and chemical health. Many individuals here either have access to only one service or, in some cases, none at all. The services we provide are as follows:
- School-based counseling for mental and chemical health
- Education on the effects of substances and harm reduction
- Alternative healthy coping skills
- Prolonged support for students
- Early prevention and intervention
- Staff development
- Consultation
- Care coordination
We are passionate about expanding and serving the needs of students, families, and communities through our School-Based Services. If your school district is interested in connecting with us, please reach out to Katie McCoy by calling (763)-292-2368.
Katie McCoy, MA, LADC
Katie is originally from North Dakota and moved to Minnesota for school. She has her bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Special Education. She received her master’s in Counseling and Psychological Services, with a focus on Integrated Treatment of Co-occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Concerns. She has experience working in various levels of care ranging from inpatient hospitals to individual therapy. Currently, Katie is working as a school-based Dual Licensed Therapist in various schools in different districts. Her focus for individual therapy is with adolescents and young adults aged 6-25. She utilizes a person–centered approach while striving towards a welcoming and non-judgmental environment. Outside the office, Katie enjoys spending time with her cat Howl, traveling to new places, and baking cookies.
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