School Based Services
Therapy and Medication Management:

For the convenience of you and your child, WCHS is able to provide Therapy and Medication Management right in your child’s school setting.  Therapy can be provided in the school districts of Avella, Burgettstown, Canon McMillan, Chartiers-Houston, Fort Cherry, and McGuffey.  Medication Management is available in the school districts of Burgettstown, Canon McMillan,


Student Assistance Program (SAP)

Washington Communities Human Services offers the following school districts:

    Avella- www.avella.k12.pa.us/

    Burgettstown- www.burgettstown.k12.pa.us

    Chartiers Houston- www.chbucs.k12.pa.us

    Canon mac- www.cmsd.k12.pa.us

    Fort cherry- www.fortcherry.org

    McGuffey- www.mcguffey.k12.pa.us


The dedicated SAP liaison provides mental health screenings, consultation with parents and SAP team members, referral to community services, and assists during post-ventions.


What Is SAP?

A SAP team made up of school and agency staff is available to help you access school and community services for your child. In Pennsylvania, every school district is required to have a plan for identifying and assisting students who experience barriers to learning. Your school’s SAP team will help you find services and assistance within the school, and if needed, in the community. SAP teams do not diagnose, treat, or refer your child for treatment. Your school’s SAP team will provide you with information and you make the choice(s) that best fit your needs and wishes. As the parent/guardian you are an important part of the team.


Do You See Your Child Showing Any of These Behaviors?
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, and/or activities
  • Changing friends
  • Unexplained physical injuries
  • Feeling sad
  • Talking about suicide
  • Defying authority, both at home and school
  • Acting aggressively
  • Hitting
  • Lying
  • Needing money without a good explanation
  • Declining grades
  • Experimenting with alcohol or drugs
  • Back-talking staff


Are You Concerned about Your Child’s Reaction to...?
  • Recent death of a loved one
  • Divorce of parents
  • Family relocation
  • A relationship problem
  • Bullying
  • Other traumatic event


How Does My Child Become Involved in the SAP Program?

Anyone can refer a child to a SAP team. Some students are referred by teachers or other school personnel. A friend or family member can also let the SAP team know that they are worried about someone. The child can even go directly to the SAP team to ask for help. Schools will gather information to determine how a student is doing in their classes. However, the SAP team will not proceed unless you give your written parent permission. Once permission is received, the SAP team will work with you to develop a plan of action to help your child achieve success in school. Participation in the program is voluntary.


What If Someone Has Referred My Child to SAP?

A SAP team member will contact you regarding your child’s referral to the program. Before a SAP team member talks to your child, you will be asked to sign a permission form. The SAP team will work with you and your child throughout the process. As a parent, your knowledge and thoughts about your child will be helpful in developing a plan of action.


How Do I Contact the SAP Team?

If you have any questions about SAP or you feel that your child may need help, call your child’s school and ask to speak with a SAP team members.