This bill allows certain mental health professionals, including student assistance coordinators, school counselors, and school psychologists working in school districts, to refer or assist in referring students to private licensed counselors for mental health assessments and services. It stipulates that these professionals cannot make referrals if they or their immediate family have a significant beneficial interest in the private counselor. Additionally, if a student is not legally able to consent to these services, the student's parent or guardian must be notified and provide consent before any assessment or service is rendered.
The bill also clarifies that neither the school district nor the referring individual will be responsible for the costs associated with the assessments or services provided by the private counselor. Importantly, it does not restrict the school district's authority to offer mental health assessments and services to students before or after a referral is made. This legislation aims to enhance mental health support for students while ensuring ethical referral practices and parental involvement.