ROCKFORD, Mich. — A recent report shows Michigan schools are facing a shortage of school counselors and psychologists. The report comes as mental health needs grow among students.
The report from the Michigan School Safety and Mental Health Commission shows the state has a ratio of one school psychologist for every 1,354 students. That's three times higher than the number recommended by the National Association of School Psychologists.
WATCH: Infographic highlighting details from the report
The report also revealed the state has one counselor for every 573 students. That's not only two times higher than the recommended ratio, but also higher than the national average of 363 students to one counselor.
The commission is recommending the state provide more funding and come up with a plan to address the shortages in school mental health.
The report comes as districts across the state are reporting more students with mental health needs, including Rockford Public Schools. Superintendent Dr. Steve Matthews said he has noticed more students with anxiety.
“Whether it’s social anxiety or anxiety created by peer groups online, I think the expectations of high school also weigh on students,” Dr. Matthews explained.
He noted that the prevalence of social media has made things harder for students, resulting in more of them seeking services from the school. However, the rising demand has created additional challenges for districts.
WATCH: Rockford Schools Superintendent, mental health expert react to report
“School psychologists and social workers are in high demand. Many districts struggle to find and retain them,” Dr. Matthews admitted.
A professor of psychology at Michigan State University, Jason Moser has taught a number of school psychologists. He believes many are unable to serve their districts in a meaningful way due to a lack of funding, which creates lower scores and leaves students' needs unmet.
“You have those kids who are just checked out. So, that information is not getting in; they're not learning at the same rate, and their grades suffer. Furthermore, those kids don’t have the same socialization that other students with better well-being can experience.”
Rockford Schools is in a better position than most districts, with five psychologists, two mental health liaisons, and a social worker in every building. However, Dr. Matthews says there is still more work needed to encourage more people to enter the field.
“Within the state of Michigan, there are not a lot of school psychology programs that are helping us develop and produce enough professionals to meet the demand,” Dr. Matthews explained. “So, one thing is to try to open that pipeline; another is to create working conditions for our psychologists and social workers that support them.”
Follow FOX 17: Facebook - X (formerly Twitter) - Instagram - YouTube
