Mental Health Services in Washington IEPs
What mental health services are available through an IEP in Washington?
Washington provides for school-based mental health services as related services within the IEP and through general school programs. Under WAC 392-172A-01155 and 34 CFR 300.34, counseling services, psychological services, and social work services are recognized related services that may be included in a student's IEP. Students with conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, or other mental health conditions that adversely affect educational performance may qualify under the 'Emotional/Behavioral Disability' (EBD) or 'Other Health Impairment' categories (WAC 392-172A-01035). When a student's behavior impedes learning due to mental health factors, the IEP team must consider positive behavioral interventions and supports (WAC 392-172A-03110(1)(a)). Washington has made significant investments in school-based mental health through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and interagency coordination with DSHS. Under RCW 28A.155.220, OSPI must establish interagency agreements with DSHS and other agencies, which includes coordination of mental health supports for transition-age students. Mental health services that are not educational in nature are generally provided by external agencies, but districts must coordinate with those agencies to ensure FAPE is not disrupted. For transition-age students, DVR and DSHS are key partners when mental health conditions affect vocational and independent living goals.
What Washington Requires
Counseling services, psychological services, and social work services are recognized related services that may be included in a student's IEP (WAC 392-172A-01155; 34 CFR 300.34).
Students with mental health conditions that adversely affect educational performance may qualify under 'Emotional/Behavioral Disability' (EBD) or 'Other Health Impairment' categories (WAC 392-172A-01035).
When behavior related to mental health impedes learning, the IEP team must consider positive behavioral interventions, supports, and strategies (WAC 392-172A-03110(1)(a)).
Mental health related services must be specified in the IEP with frequency, location, duration, and projected start date (WAC 392-172A-03090(1)(g)).
Washington requires interagency coordination with DSHS, DCYF, and DVR for transition-age students with mental health needs (RCW 28A.155.220).
Key Timelines
Mental health related services must begin on the projected start date in the IEP (WAC 392-172A-03090(1)(g)).
Services must be reviewed at least annually at the IEP meeting (WAC 392-172A-03110(2)).
If a student's mental health needs change significantly, the IEP team should reconvene to revise services (WAC 392-172A-03110(2)(a)-(d)).