For Families: FAQs

How can my student see a Mending Matters therapist or attend one of your programs?

Mending Matters exists on school campuses and partner sites so that students can receive mental health support in a convenient format. To see our list of current sites, click here. Don’t see your school? You can contact us for more information or share this information with your school administrator.

To make a referral for your student, please contact referrals@mendingmatters.org.

What is therapy and how are your therapists trained?

Therapy is the process of a therapist meeting with an individual or group to work on a specific topic, goal, or to provide support. Therapy is confidential, meaning therapists cannot share information talked about in sessions without the permission of the individual and/or parent/guardian depending on age. All therapists are mandated reporters and must report safety concerns to the proper authority.

Our therapists have received master’s-level training in psychotherapy and other helpful techniques. Typically, our therapists are Marriage & Family Therapists or Socials Workers. All of our therapists are held to the ethics and standards of the California Board of Behavioral Science. Any further questions about the therapy process and training can be directed toward your child’s assigned therapist.

What is an “alternative-to-suspension”?

Mending Matters provides different types of classes for students as an alternative to suspension. When a student commits an offense on campus, instead of sitting at home or in an administrator’s office, the student comes to a group class and learns essential life skills. These include, but are not limited to, forming healthy relationships, values clarification, conflict resolution, and coping skills.

Learn more about topics covered in our group programs here.

When do you meet with students and for how long?

Therapy sessions are typically provided during school hours or hours of the program your child is participating in. Length of sessions vary. Our therapists work closely with school staff and partners to ensure sessions are not disruptive and complement the student’s existing schedule. For any further questions, please contact your student’s assigned Mending Matters therapist directly.

Where can I learn more about my or my student’s rights when participating in therapy?

The Client Rights document can be accessed here.

How do I refer my student to the Mending Matters program at my school?

You can refer your student to Mending Matters by contacting your school’s counseling department or a school administrator. They will ask for information regarding your student such as their student ID, grade, and what their needs are.

Is there a cost to see a Mending Matters therapist?

If there is a Mending Matters therapist at your campus, you can see them for free.

How quickly does Mending Matters see a student?

Once a referral has been made, a Mending Matters therapist will have an initial meeting with your student. It can take about 2-3 weeks to have this initial meeting. If you haven’t heard about the status of your referral, please contact your school’s counseling department.

If your student is in a mental health crisis or needs urgent support, please inform your school’s counseling department. A Mending Matters therapist can make themselves available immediately for safety concerns and crisis intervention. You can also get emergency help here.