Ethical Considerations for School Psychologists Supporting Students with Co-Occurring Behavioral and Mental Health Needs
NCSP-Approved Professional Development | 2 CPD Credits
This course provides essential guidance on the ethical responsibilities of school psychologists when supporting students who present with co-occurring behavioral and mental health needs, including anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related conditions, and related challenges. As the complexity of student needs continues to increase, school psychologists play a critical role in ensuring ethical, effective, and developmentally appropriate support within educational settings.
Designed specifically for school psychologists, this 2-credit professional development course equips participants with the knowledge needed to navigate ethical decision-making when behavioral concerns intersect with mental health needs. The course offers a clear overview of common ethical dilemmas, professional boundaries, and factors that may influence student behavior, intervention planning, and overall well-being at school.
Participants will examine how co-occurring needs intersect with school-based services, behavioral interventions, and progress monitoring. Emphasis is placed on ethical practice, consultation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and data-based decision-making. The course provides practical guidance on monitoring student functioning, communicating concerns appropriately, and collaborating effectively with families, educators, and community providers—while remaining firmly within professional scope of practice.
By the end of the course, participants will feel confident identifying ethical considerations, interpreting school-based implications, and supporting students with co-occurring behavioral and mental health needs through informed consultation and ethically sound recommendations.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, school psychologists will be able to:
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Identify ethical considerations when supporting students with co-occurring behavioral and mental health needs
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Recognize how mental health conditions may influence behavior, learning, and social-emotional functioning in school settings
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Apply data-based observation and monitoring to inform ethical decision-making and intervention planning
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Collaborate ethically with families, educators, and outside professionals within scope of practice
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Integrate ethical principles into comprehensive, school-based intervention and consultation practices
NCSP Credit Alignment & Domains of Practice
This course qualifies for NASP-approved continuing professional development (CPD) hours and may be applied toward the 75 CPD hours required for NCSP renewal.
The content aligns with the following NCSP Domains of Practice:
Domain 1: Data-Based Decision Making
Using systematic data to guide ethical decision-making and intervention planning.
Domain 2: Consultation and Collaboration
Partnering with families, educators, and mental health professionals to support student needs.
Domain 4: Interventions and Mental Health Services
Understanding how behavioral and mental health needs interact within school-based supports.
Domain 8: Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practice
Applying ethical standards, professional boundaries, and informed judgment in complex cases.
Course Details
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Audience: School Psychologists
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Format: Online, self-paced
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Length: 2 CPD Credits
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Approval: NASP-approved for NCSP renewal
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Focus: Ethical considerations when supporting students with co-occurring behavioral and mental health needs in educational settings
