Spokane County Initiative for Student Wellness (ISW): School-Based Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SB-SBIRT) Program

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The Initiative for Student Wellness (ISW) School Based-Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SB-SBIRT) is an innovative intervention and treatment program created by the Spokane County Community Services Department (CSD) in response to critical mental health and substance use needs faced by youth. The ISW:SB-SBIRT identifies this need through the implementation of a universal screening tool that provides a snapshot of the overall wellbeing of middle school and high school aged youth using an evidence-based questionnaire. Results from the screening survey are compiled and students are assigned a risk category based on various factors, including immediate risk and physiological needs. Follow up is provided to any youth identified at risk or requesting follow up, including mental health treatment services when necessary, until referred to an outpatient provider. All services provided by the ISW program are available to any youth within the participating schools, regardless of insurance coverage or ability to pay. Through the ISW program, Spokane County seeks to change the approach to youth mental health treatment, recognizing the importance of preventative treatment through implementing targeted upstream interventions to address emerging challenges, while ensuring critical treatment services to address immediate mental health needs. ISW:SB-SBIRT’s innovative and comprehensive model promotes a healthier and more vibrant community, while working to ensure equitable access to necessary mental services for all youth in Spokane County.