Support Departments » Social Work Department

Social Work Department

Social Work Department

 

Welcome to the MLVRCS Social Work Department!

 

We are committed to supporting the social, emotional, and mental wellbeing of all students.
If you have concerns or would like to speak with a social worker, please contact us.

 

Ms. Galarza - Anti Bullying Specialist - 973-481-9001 x136
Ms. Hughes  - Case Manager - 973-481-9001 x131 

 

About School Social Workers

School Social Workers play a vital role in helping students overcome social, emotional, and behavioral barriers that impact learning and success. Their work supports positive school culture, improves academic outcomes, and connects students and families to meaningful resources.

School Social Workers are an essential link between school, home, and community. They collaborate closely with administrators, students, and families to support:

  • School discipline and behavior policies

  • Mental health intervention and crisis response

  • Social-emotional support services

  • Community partnerships and resource coordination

As part of an interdisciplinary team, social workers help build inclusive, supportive environments where students feel safe, valued, and empowered to succeed.
(Source: National Association of Social Workers)


How We Support Students

Through counseling, crisis intervention, and prevention programs, school social workers help students navigate challenges that may impact wellbeing, self-esteem, and academic engagement.

Our work focuses on building:

  • A sense of belonging and school connectedness

  • Healthy peer and adult relationships

  • Emotional resilience and positive coping skills

  • Access to school and community supports

We help address barriers related to finances, health concerns, and environmental stressors, while collaborating with teachers, families, and community providers to keep students engaged and thriving.


Counseling Services

We offer individual and small-group counseling to support students’ social and emotional development.

  • Parents and school staff are able to submit counseling referral forms

  • Participation requires parental consent

  • Group sessions are offered throughout the school year

Common reasons for referral include:

  • Social skills development

  • Friendship concerns

  • Family changes or loss

  • Low self-esteem

  • Anger management

  • Conflict resolution


Crisis Counseling & Intervention

Social Workers are available to support students and families experiencing acute distress or urgent mental health needs. This may include:

  • Serious mental health concerns

  • Traumatic events impacting school functioning

  • Safety concerns requiring immediate intervention

We help connect students and families with appropriate services and provide compassionate support during difficult times.

 

Helpful Resources

 

Mental Health

National Institute of Mental Health – Depression
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Information on developmental, behavioral, and mental disorders
http://www.aacap.org

U.S. Department of Mental Health
Helping Children and Youth with Major Depression: Systems of Care
http://www.samhsa.gov


Suicide Prevention

2NDFloor Youth Helpline
http://www.2ndfloor.org/

National Institute of Mental Health – Suicide Prevention
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Call: 1-800-273-8255
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org