It is a cooperative program shared by the Onodaga County Department of Mental Health, the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services, the New York State Education Department, and participating schools. These services are free, confidential, and voluntary and are intended to provide support to students around a variety of mental health and substance abuse-related issues. Students are referred by concerned faculty, parents or other professionals. Students also self-refer, seeking help for themselves or for a friend. The SAP counselors meet with students during or after school hours, and are available to meet with parents whenever possible.
Students have the option of receiving counseling services throughout the school year, if needed.
SAP counselors also facilitate counseling groups and peer leadership groups whenever feasible. Students who need longer term or more intensive counseling or treatment are linked with appropriate community resources. In addition to individual counseling, she also co-facilitates the Fowler Clean Team, a support group for students who want to remain free of alcohol or other drugs.