Darlington partners with Atrium Health School-Based Virtual Therapy to expand mental health support for students

Darlington School is proud to announce a new partnership with Atrium Health School-Based Virtual Therapy, providing students with convenient, timely access to licensed mental health professionals – without ever needing to leave campus.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to educating the whole child,” said Head of School Brent Bell. “By making high-quality mental health care more accessible within the school day, we are ensuring our students have the support they need to thrive both academically and personally.”

Through this innovative program, students can receive teletherapy services during the school day, helping to reduce barriers to care and support their overall well-being and academic success. Referrals for services can be made by a teacher, school nurse, or counselor when mental health concerns arise. Additionally, parents and guardians may request therapy services by contacting the school’s counseling team directly.

“This is an innovative approach to expanding access to high quality mental health care for students in our community,” said Kurt Stuenkel, president of Atrium Health Floyd. “Our program will provide easy access to care for students when they need it most.”

Highlights of the School-Based Therapy Program:

• Minimizes Time Out of Class: Therapy sessions take place on campus, significantly reducing the amount of instructional time students miss.
• Family Involvement Made Easy: Parents and guardians can join sessions virtually when family participation is needed, increasing engagement and support.
• Support Where Challenges Occur: Many students face their greatest challenges within the school setting due to academic and social pressures. This program meets students where they are and allows clinicians to collaborate directly with school staff to provide targeted support and adjustments.
• Strong School Partnership: Clinicians maintain close communication with school teams to ensure a coordinated approach to each student’s success.
• Faster Access to Care: Unlike many outpatient services, the program offers quick turnaround times. Once a referral is received, intake appointments are typically completed within 10 days, depending on guardian availability.
• Goal-Focused Services: Therapy is structured to be goal-oriented and skills-based, equipping students with tools to thrive both academically and emotionally.
• Insurance Transparency: Before services begin, clinicians verify insurance coverage and clearly communicate any deductibles or co-pays with families.

How it Works:

• Step 1: With parent or guardian consent, the school connects the student with Atrium Health Behavioral Health to begin the referral process.
• Step 2: A medical professional contacts the family to schedule the student’s first virtual therapy appointment. Parents or guardians are welcome to join by phone or video.
• Step 3: During the initial visit, the therapist learns about the student’s concerns and develops a personalized care plan.
• Step 4: The therapist provides ongoing weekly or biweekly follow-up sessions to help the student achieve their goals.

Common conditions treated include adjustment issues, anxiety, attention difficulties and trouble concentrating, classroom behavior challenges, depression, grief, irritability, and sadness.

“By embedding mental health services into the school day, Darlington School and Atrium Health are removing common barriers to care and ensuring that students receive the support they need in a familiar, accessible environment,” said Bell.

For more information about the Atrium Health School-Based Virtual Therapy program, please visit AtriumHealth.org/CareAtSchool or call 704-512-2828. 

Click here to learn more about Darlington’s other wellness initiatives.