How is this different from school counseling?

Cartwheel provides clinical mental health treatment from licensed therapists specializing in school avoidance, which differs from school counselors who focus on academic and social guidance. Our clinicians are specifically trained in evidence-based approaches for school refusal and anxiety disorders.

What is the difference between school avoidance and truancy?

School avoidance is driven by emotional distress such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, where students want to attend but struggle due to mental health barriers. Truancy typically involves willful absence without emotional distress as the primary cause.

How quickly can students access services?

Students can typically access services within 7-10 days of referral.

Does Cartwheel provide full-spectrum treatment?

Yes, Cartwheel provides comprehensive mental health care including individual therapy, parent guidance, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management when needed.

Is teletherapy effective for school avoidance?

Yes, teletherapy has proven effective for treating school avoidance. It provides accessible, convenient care that removes barriers to treatment and allows for flexible scheduling.

How are outcomes measured?

Outcomes are measured through validated clinical assessments, attendance data tracking, and the School Refusal Assessment Scale (SRAS) to monitor progress throughout treatment.

Is medication management available?

Yes, psychiatric evaluations and medication management are integrated into the program when clinically appropriate.

What is expected of families?

Families are expected to be committed to regular participation, seek guidance actively, and serve as active treatment partners in their child's care.

What is required of school staff?

School staff coordination involves collaboration with Cartwheel clinicians to support student progress and implement recommended accommodations.

Is the program compatible with IEP/504 plans?

Yes, the program is fully compatible with IEP and 504 plans and can support documentation and recommendations for educational accommodations.

Back to School: 2026-2027

For Schools

Back to school.
Back to support.

The start of a new school year brings new routines, new classrooms, and for many students, new challenges.

Anxiety, school avoidance, social stress, and emotional struggles often surface in the first few weeks—when students are most visible and most reachable.

Cartwheel is here to help your district connect students and families to care.

Refer a Student

Connect Students to Care Early

The first few weeks are when students struggling with the transition are most visible— and easiest to reach. Acting early means more students get connected to the care they need before things escalate.
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If you’re noticing a student who could benefit, now is the right time to refer them:

Refer a Student

Refer a student directly here—or reach out to a student support staff member to make the referral.

Refer a Student

Share the Family Interest Form

Families can reach out directly for support here—every submission is reviewed and approved before anyone is connected to care.

Share the Family Interest Form

Back to school.Back to support.

Connect Students to Care Early

Refer a Student

Share the Family Interest Form

Questions about support?

Back to school.
Back to support.