In Westbrook Schools
WYFS provides in-school therapy for children as well as counseling at the agency. Counselors help students by participating in early identification of potential behavioral and/or emotional issues. WYFS leads peer-mentoring groups focused on social skills, executive functioning skills, divorce, or other relevant issues. Referrals for more intensive services can also be made as appropriate.
All in-school services are provided free of charge.
At the Elementary School:
Lunch Bunch
During the school day, WYFS staff facilitates these Lunch Bunches with the teachers. The lessons follow the Second Step curriculum and help students learn to identify their own emotions and the emotions of others.
Sandcastles
Sandcastles is a support group for Daisy students who have families that are changing or have changed. Examples include divorce or separation. Students learn how to identify, cope, and explore their feelings about their changing family and connect with peers who share similar experiences.
Stepping Up
Stepping Up is a very popular after-school leadership program for 3rd and 4th graders. Due to demand and limited space, participants are selected through a lottery process.
At the Middle School:
Peer Groups
WMS peer groups are available upon referral. Middle School students opt in for fun with our Peer Groups. Once a week, during lunch, our staff invites students to play games, chill out, and connect with students in a safe zone. Each group will focus on building those connections with others, problem-solving skills, and recognizing the long term consequences of our actions. Students will raise the issues they find important and want to discuss.
Presentations
Every month, WYFS delivers a presentation to students about topics such as mindfulness, social media, vaping, and anxiety. These interactive lectures include educational information and resources for students.
At the High School:
Helping Hands
Helping Hands is a group designed for students to give back to their community in ways they find important and interesting. Students in grades 7 –12 discuss and decide what projects they would like to be involved in. Past service includes working at the YMCA community garden which donates produce to local food banks and Mother’s Day “glam” for Seniors. Students have also supported various community events such as voting, school open houses, and educational presentations by watching the little ones.
The Listening Circle
WYFS has partnered with the Youth and Family Services of Old Saybrook and Clinton as well as the State Education Resource Center to provide opportunities for students to have their voices heard. These meetings include trainings and allow people from all cultures, ages, and backgrounds to discuss topics such as racism, diversity, and equity.
Gender and sexuality alliance
This is an all inclusive group for ages 11-18 of all genders and sexualities.