Episode 16 - Introducing The Bridge Project in PA: Online Mental Health Services for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness

In partnership with Move Forward Counseling and eLuma, The Bridge Project in PA facilitates FREE access to mental health services for PA children and youth experiencing homelessness. Learn the benefits of teletherapy; how schools, students, and families access services; how the program is addressing technological challenges; and the impact of mental health on academic achievement. 

We also tackle broader challenges school districts face, such as absenteeism and behavioral needs, and how virtual mental health support can enhance traditional in-person approaches. Discover the critical role of parents/guardians in the teletherapy process and the collaborative efforts between schools and teletherapy providers. Finally, we emphasize the importance of student engagement and self-advocacy, and highlight the seamless referral processes of The Bridge Project in PA and the ongoing mission to extend support to all students in need. 

The Bridge Project in PA is part of Pennsylvania’s American Rescue Plan Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) Program and is available for a limited time.

Read the transcript. 

A referral for services through The Bridge Project in PA is required by the Homeless Liaison at the student’s school. 

 Links:

• The Bridge Project in PA  
• Pennsylvania Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness
• Sign up for email updates
• "I Will Be Your Voice" Podcast
• Center for Schools and Communities

Meet Our Guests

Valerie McNicholl, Chief Operating Officer, Move Forward Counseling 

Valerie McNicholl is a licensed clinical social worker in PA and chief operating officer of Move Forward Counseling, LLC.  Valerie has 20+ years of experience working with children, adults, and families to improve their lives in a variety of treatment settings. Valerie approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective and uses a variety of interventions. Originally from Schenectady, New York, she firmly believes that people heal differently, and that therapy can be a means to finding your way. 

 Chris Niemeyer, Director of School Partnerships, eLuma

Chris is a lifelong EdTech advocate and comes from a family of educators.  He has worked with schools in a range of roles, from implementing digital tools in classrooms to rolling out large-scale technology initiatives. Over the past 20+ years, he has worked with several influential EdTech companies and has the expertise required to successfully support educators and K-12 school districts. In that context, Chris joined eLuma with a shared mission to help all students achieve their potential. 

 Leslie Cole, Director of School Solutions, eLuma 

Leslie is a dedicated and experienced educational professional with a passion for supporting students, staff, and promoting systemic positive change. As a school psychologist supporting districts in the surrounding Tampa Bay, Florida, region, she gained invaluable knowledge and led efforts to support schools with Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), early intervention, and trauma-informed care. After the pandemic, Leslie made the decision to return to New York, where she became MTSS coordinator and later a district administrator. Leslie is now director of school success at eLuma.