This project supports providing counseling services in schools to students provided by culturally and linguistically master level students reflective of cultural sensitivity, awareness, understanding, and appreciation of cultural differences and similarities within, among, and between groups. The project director, universities field liaisons and on-site SMBH coordinator(s) will support and the guide interns in their counseling sessions with students to be cognizant of the cultural background of each student and integrating this understanding into the therapeutic process. This approach ensures that counseling practices are not only respectful and non-discriminatory but also tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. The Passaic Public schools demographically represents --Hispanic/Latino (93.35%); Black (4.09%); Asian (1.61%); Pacific Islander (0.15%); White (0.75%); American Indian (0.06%) populations. The student referrals consist of; aggressive behaviors, language fighting, family concerns, grief/loss, death, eviction, separation, health Impulsive/hyperactive, inexplicably withdrawn or reserved or shy attention seeking behaviors bully-victor or aggressor, difficulty in peer relationship, daily microaggressions, immigration stress, acculturation challenges, language barriers, and the stigma associated with seeking mental health services.
