Supporting Students’ Mental Health: OhioRISE Resources for the New School Year

As another school year begins, the Ohio Department of Medicaid wants to share a resource with OAESA members:  the OhioRISE program—Ohio Resilience through Integrated Systems and Excellence.

OhioRISE is a specialized managed care program for children and youth under 21 who are experiencing complex behavioral health challenges, including mental health and substance use disorders. These young people often need help from multiple systems—such as schools, child protection, juvenile justice, developmental disabilities, and mental health services. OhioRISE brings these systems together to provide coordinated, compassionate care.

At the heart of OhioRISE is a dedicated care coordinator who works directly with families to navigate services and ensure youth receive the support they need. The program also offers a range of specialized services, including:

• Special therapy at home (called Intensive Home-Based Treatment).
• Places in Ohio where kids can stay for mental healthcare.
• Short breaks for families (called respite).
• Money for special needs such as equipment, supplies or services (called flex funds).
• Help during a crisis (Mobile Response and Stabilization Services)

These services are designed to keep youth safe, supported, and on a path to success.  This flyer has more information on how to refer young people to OhioRISE, as well as useful resources for staff and families.

Did you know, many schools are already working with their local OhioRISE Care Management Entity (CME) to refer youth and to attend school events? CMEs have care coordinators who help students and families—and they support schools by being part of the student’s care team.

CMEs often invite school staff to care planning meetings and want to be a resource for your school. They’re also eager to attend school events and set up tables to connect with more families who could benefit from OhioRISE.

Click here to learn more.

Together, we can ensure every child has access to the behavioral health support they need to thrive.