As summer ends and the new school year approaches, many children and their families begin preparing for a return to the classroom. For some, this transition brings excitement—but for others, it can trigger anxiety, stress, or behavioral challenges, especially for children who have experienced mental health issues, trauma, or extended absences. At Memorial Medical Clinics, we recognize the critical role that emotional well-being plays in a child’s ability to learn, socialize, and succeed in school. That’s why we offer an integrated behavioral health program designed specifically to support children through this transition.
A Collaborative Approach to Pediatric Behavioral Health
Our behavioral health services bring together a multidisciplinary team of psychiatric providers, licensed counselors, pediatric primary care physicians, and a child life specialist who collaborate closely to evaluate each child’s unique needs and develop an effective, personalized treatment plan.
“No two children experience the same challenges in the same way,” says Chaka Batley, NP, Executive Director of Behavioral Health Strategy. “With the right care, empathy, and understanding, every child has the capacity to adapt and flourish—even in the face of complex circumstances.”
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Every child’s journey begins with a thorough screening and assessment process. This includes input from parents or guardians, school personnel (when appropriate), and a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Through this process, we can diagnose conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, sleep disorders, and/or substance misuse.
Treatment Planning
Once a diagnosis is made, our team collaborates to design an individualized treatment plan that may include counseling, psychiatric medication management, and family engagement. Our care coordination team helps integrate school supports and community resources for children who attend school in Hancock County.
Counseling Services
Our licensed therapists offer individual therapy to help children build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and work through school-related stressors. We also provide mobile counseling services at schools, making care more accessible during the school day.
Psychiatric Support
For children who may benefit from medication, our psychiatric providers offer medication prescribing and monitoring. This service is especially helpful for managing conditions like ADHD, anxiety disorders, or mood disorders that can interfere with focus, learning, and classroom behavior.
Child Life Specialists
Our certified Child Life Specialist uses developmentally appropriate strategies—including play therapy, education, and emotional support—to help children understand and manage their mental health treatment. The specialist plays a vital role in helping younger patients navigate fear, confusion, or stigma around behavioral health care.
Why School Transitions Matter
Research shows that mental health is closely linked to school performance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in six children aged 2–8 years has a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder, and untreated conditions can significantly impair academic performance, peer relationships, and overall well-being.
Additionally, a recent review published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America found that children returning to school after psychiatric hospitalization or prolonged absence often face challenges, including stigma, anxiety, and difficulty catching up academically. These findings reinforce the importance of timely, coordinated mental health support during transitions back to school.
We’re here to help
At Memorial Medical Clinic, we are proud to offer a full continuum of care for children and adolescents, including:
- Screening and Assessment
- Treatment Plans
- Care Coordination
- Diagnosis
- Psychiatric Medication Prescribing and Management
- Substance Use Disorder Treatment
- Consultative Services and Case Management
- Mobile Counseling Services at Schools within Hancock County district
These services provide treatment for a variety of needs including:
- Anxiety
- Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Depression
- Disruptive Mood Dysregulation disorder (DMDD)
- Eating Disorders
- Insomnia
- LGBTQ+ Support
- Substance Misuse/Abuse
At Memorial Medical Clinics, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive academically and emotionally. By bringing together experts in psychiatry, counseling, and child life services, we provide compassionate, comprehensive care that helps kids return to school with confidence and support.
To schedule an appointment, call us at (217) 357-6888. Most insurances accepted.
