Dear Dolores Parent, Guardian, and Staff
We are excited to announce an innovative telehealth therapy service opportunity for staff, students, and families in the Dolores District. We are partnering with Healthy Young Minds to offer individual and group counseling sessions. For more information, please click on the link provided HERE and/or visit the Healthy Young Minds website. HYM website
At the Dolores District, your child’s well-being is our top priority. Throughout the school year, the Dolores District, in partnership with Healthy Young Minds, will offer all students in grades 6–12 the opportunity to participate in a short, free, and voluntary mental health screening.
The screening uses two nationally recognized tools: the PHQ-9 (for depression) and GAD-7 (for anxiety). These take about 8 minutes to complete. Screenings are not a diagnosis, but they help us identify when students might benefit from additional support. If the results suggest a greater need, Healthy Young Minds has licensed psychologists available to provide a full evaluation and, when appropriate, a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
Dolores will provide a space for on-campus sessions during non-content student times. Families may participate in sessions at their discretion, at home, on their phone, or in any available space.
Why this matters
- 1 in 3 teens reports symptoms of anxiety or depression. Research shows that early support greatly improves long-term outcomes.
- Telehealth therapy for youth has been shown to be just as effective as in-person therapy, making it easier for families to access help.
By identifying concerns early, we can connect students and families with resources before challenges grow.
What families need to know
- Free and voluntary: There is no cost, and participation is completely optional. Students will not be penalized for opting out.
- Consent:
- Students 12 and older in Colorado may legally consent to their own mental health assessment.
- Parents/guardians are always encouraged to be involved, and we will communicate openly whenever possible.
- Privacy and confidentiality: Results are private and kept in compliance with FERPA, HIPAA, and the Colorado Student Data Transparency and Security Act.
- Confidentiality may be broken only if a student is at imminent risk of harm to self or others, or if mandatory reporting laws apply (e.g., abuse or neglect).
- Crisis response: If a screening indicates a student may be at risk, a trained school professional will follow up immediately and ensure safety protocols are in place.
Opt-out process
All eligible students will be included unless a parent/guardian opts out. If you prefer your child not participate, please respond by emailing your child’s teacher or principal with “Opt Out” in the subject area and your child’s name in the email.
Next steps and resources
- Screenings will take place on February 23rd through February 27th, 2026
- Families will be contacted by a representative of Healthy Young Minds with results and offered support resources as needed.