Students who need mental health resources have a new option for services over the holidays and beyond. As part of a partnership with Des Moines Public Schools announced earlier this year, Hazel Health is offering telehealth counseling services to DMPS families at no cost.
“The timing of the launch coincides with the time of year in which local providers of school-based mental health care are carrying full caseloads and in need of alternate solutions,” said Hannah Olson, Hazel Health partner success manager.
This new initiative is part of a $1.5M investment from UnitedHealthcare to expand access to youth mental health services statewide. These funds have been provided to Hazel Health for virtual mental health services to approximately 100,000 K-12 students. Hazel Health is a leading provider of student-based telehealth services for some 4.5 million students across the country.
“This partnership with Hazel Health couldn’t come at a better time,” said Katie Issa, DMPS Behavioral Health Coordinator. “The winter break can be particularly challenging for students as routines shift and school support systems are less accessible. Having access to professional mental health services ensures our students can get the help they need when they need it most, at no cost to families.”
Online therapy is available at no cost to all students during winter break Monday thru Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. with the exception of holidays (Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 1).
“Breaks in learning or routine can disrupt a student’s emotional well-being, but mental health support can provide the tools they need to stay resilient and thrive,” said Olson.
How it works:
DMPS students can get help with academic stress, anxiety, or managing difficult emotions or relationships with an online therapist. They receive:
- Expert Support: 1-on-1 counseling from a professional therapist
- Fast and Easy: No long waiting lists or doctor referral needed
- Proven History: 90% of students improve after six sessions
- Cost: Free for all students
Parents or students can sign up on the getstarted.hazel.co or call 888-541-7063.
Some quick facts about Hazel Health teleservices:
- 50% of providers identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC)
- 40%+ of providers are bilingual, speaking over 15 languages
- License types: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
- Areas of Expertise: Foster youth, ADHD, immigration, race, LGBTQ+, body image, sexual abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, attachment disorders, military families, and more