"School psychologists help children and youth succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They collaborate with educators, parents, and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students that strengthen connections between home and school." - National Association of School Psychologists

School psychologists provide many services:

Consultation School psychologists collaborate with parents, teachers, and administrators in order to develop strategic plans for helping students with learning or behavior problems.

Evaluation School psychologists evaluate students to determine eligibility for special education and related services. Part of the evaluation includes assessment of academic skills and aptitude for learning. In some cases, school psychologists evaluate children's social and emotional development and mental health status.

Intervention School psychologists intervene, when necessary, to help families and schools cope with crises, such as death, illness, or community trauma. Additionally, school psychologists work directly with children and families to solve academic or behavioral difficulties that interfere with the students' learning by implementing various interventions in the classroom. In some cases, the school psychologist may provide counseling to help resolve issues that interfere with students' academic achievement.

Prevention School psychologists assist in the development of prevention programs for students to make schools safer and more effective learning environments. Programs also may address students at-risk for school failure. As part of prevention, school psychologists network and build relationships with parents and teachers to promote healthy school environments.

Research and Planning School psychologists evaluate the effectiveness of academic and behavior support plans. Additionally, school psychologists are trained to identify and implement programs and strategies to improve student performance and school environments. Most importantly, school psychologists use evidence-based research to develop and/or recommend effective interventions for students based on individual needs.

In addition to the many services discussed above, school psychologists also help children and adolescents cope with difficult times (divorce, death, illness, trauma), anxiety, anger, or other problems that interfere with their performance at school.

The information summarized above was obtained from the National Association of School Psychologists. For more information go to www.nasponline.org .