How does a child qualify for mental health services in an IEP or 504 plan?

A child can qualify for mental health services in an IEP under the categories “Emotional Disturbance (ED)” or “Other Health Impairment (OHI),” or, if they already have another qualifying diagnosis, through having a mental health diagnosis (ED or OHI) listed as a secondary qualifying diagnosis in the IEP (although the format this appears in the IEP can vary from state to state). To receive mental health services through the IEP, their mental and/or emotional health must be affecting their social emotional performance, access to learning, self-help and/or vocational needs in school. A child can also qualify for a 504 plan if they have a diagnosis that affects their learning — and depression, anxiety, and OCD can all do that. Like anything else in an IEP or 504 plan, receiving mental health services will require a thorough assessment. You can make a formal request in writing for an assessment. The school will arrange the evaluation, which may be provided by a school psychologist or through an outside professional.

This evaluation is necessary even if your child has already received a medical diagnosis from a psychiatrist, pediatrician or a neurologist. Having a DSM diagnosis may help a child qualify for an IEP or 504 plan, but it’s not required as the school is a separate entity and must do its own evaluation.

Once the evaluation is complete, you and your child (if appropriate) will meet with the IEP Team to go over the evaluation and the recommendations for accommodations, modifications and other related services to create a plan to support your child.

For more information ,see our full article How IEPs and 504 Plans Help Support Mental Health in School.