How JFCS works with schools and families to make a difference
By Emily Witmier, LAC – Mental Health Clinician & Community Educator
At Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS), we see the impact of unsupported mental health challenges every day—students struggling with more than just schoolwork. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 40% of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in the last year. Nearly one in five children ages three to seventeen have been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition. So how do we protect our kids from reaching their breaking point? And what can we do when we see signs that they’re already struggling?
How JFCS Helps in Schools: JFCS partners directly with local schools to offer prevention-based presentations tailored to the real concerns students are facing today. These programs are age-appropriate, conversation-driven, and focused on providing real-life strategies and tools -not just information. Thanks to generous support from Cherry Hill RISE, the Camden County Board of Commissioners, and Gregg B. Wolfe in loving memory of son Justin Matthew Wolfe, we currently offer three free school-based mental health and wellness programs:
One Step at a Time
Students learn about substance use and misuse, addiction as a disease, healthy coping strategies, and how to support friends – ideally before a crisis arises.
Building Healthy Relationships
This program helps students recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. Many survivors of domestic violence tell us that patterns of abuse began as early as middle school. We give students the tools and language to speak up—for themselves or someone else.
This Life Counts
We create a safe, nonjudgmental space for students to talk about depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Students and educators learn how to recognize the signs, approach difficult conversations, and get connected with help.
Recognizing the Warning Signs: Whether you’re a parent, guardian, clergy member, teacher, or coach—you are part of the solution! Kids don’t always ask for help directly. Sometimes, they show it. Early warning signs might include:
- Sudden weight changes
- Avoiding school or social activities
- Giving away valued possessions
- Refusing to talk about the future
- Increased anxiety or worry
- Negative self-talk
- Isolation
If you notice any of these warning signs in a child you know, it’s important to take action with care, compassion, and urgency.
Simple Ways Parents and Guardians Can Help:
Normalize without minimizing. Teens are incredibly sensitive to judgment, and that’s developmentally normal. Try this: “It seems like transitioning into high school might be challenging for you. I remember it was challenging for me. How can I support you?”
Support their independence. A new school year is a chance for new responsibilities. Encourage your child to pack their own lunch, manage their homework, or make social plans on their own (and then check in after).
Encourage evolving interests. Maybe they loved science last year and now they want to be an artist. Let them change! Spend time listening to their new passions with your full attention.
Stick to structure—even when life gets busy. Kids crave routines, even when they fight them. Establish small but consistent habits like packing lunches the night before or choosing breakfast before bed.
Don’t wait for a crisis. It can be tough to get a therapy appointment in a moment of crisis. If you see signs that your child is struggling, talk to them early and consider setting up a session before things escalate. A strong relationship with a therapist can make a big difference later.
Ready to Partner With Us? If you’re a teacher or school administrator, now is the time to schedule your programs for the 2025–2026 school year. Check out our Community Outreach flyer at https://jfcssnj.org/community-outreach-programs/.
Parents and guardians interested in counseling services for their child or teen can call (856) 424-1333 or email counselingintake@jfedsnj.org to get started.
Let’s work together to support our students this year. Reach out before the crisis and be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to your child’s emotional wellbeing. When we show up early, listen closely, and lead with empathy, we give every child the chance to thrive—inside and outside the classroom.
Emily Witmier is a licensed associate counselor (LAC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC). She earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, and she is currently pursuing an EdD in Community Care and Counseling with a focus on Traumatology. With three years of middle school teaching experience, Emily brings a unique perspective to counseling, particularly with children, teens, and individuals in their twenties.
In her own words: “My approach emphasizes strengths and solution-focused methods, creating an authentic space for exploration and healing. I am passionate about integrating creative arts into therapy and harnessing the therapeutic benefits of art.”
