As of this year at EHS, we have welcomed Morgan Lapidus as our first school therapist. Lapidus works for North Range Behavioral Health and visits EHS every Tuesday and Thursday. In the previous school years, counselors Kelly Kocheavar and Laura Flood were the only mental health resources, but they are also responsible for creating schedules for all 600 students which is an overwhelming amount of work. Since welcoming Lapidus to our school, counselors are now able to focus on their responsibilities and students can speak with a more qualified resource. Lapidus said, “If students are interested in participating in therapy and wanting support through school-based services, they should speak to Ms. Kochevar or Ms. Flood! Our counselors give referrals to me after they have a chance to speak with students and parents and determine if their concerns are appropriate for school-based therapy.” Counselors are able to guide students in the right direction for help and students can set up an appointment with Lapidus before meeting with her. With this system, it allows more clarity for counselors, teachers, and parents to understand what help that student exactly needs.

To some, the idea of seeing a therapist can be intimidating, however, therapy is an opportunity to relieve stress and find solutions or coping mechanisms for issues that may be overwhelming.

Lapidus said, “I hope that students and staff can view North Range services and therapy as a resource when they are needing a little extra support! Having friends and family to go to when we’re struggling is really important – but sometimes having an outside, unbiased 3rd person can be even more helpful. We all struggle and I am a big believer that naming our problems or struggles out loud takes some of the wind out of the sails, so to speak.” Therapy is a great resource that tends to be neglected, but EHS is lucky enough to have this support. Speaking about issues no matter how big or small is greatly beneficial to mental health. Social Studies teacher Andrew Jorgensen said, “It’s beneficial for students to be aware of this resource, and teachers and admin need to get the word out.” Although not everyone may need therapy, having that resource available will assist many people who struggle. EHS currently only has 600 students, and with the expansion of the school, it will become increasingly more difficult for counselors and teachers to look after, and recognize all students who may be struggling. Introducing this support system will create a safe, and welcoming environment for all students.