Mental Health in Schools: Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter on Supporting Students & Educators

How do we normalize mental health conversations in K-12 schools? What does psychological first aid look like for parents and educators? Join Bridget Johnson and child clinical psychologist Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter for an essential conversation about building emotionally healthy school communities while protecting educator well-being.

Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter brings 35+ years of experience supporting children, families, and educators, including 26 years as a school psychologist at The Park School in Brookline, MA. Now a Clinical Associate Professor at Boston University School of Medicine and Recording Secretary of the APA Board of Directors, she shares practical wisdom from decades of creating accessible, integrated mental health support in schools. As author of "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid," Dr. Moorehead-Slaughter offers actionable strategies for navigating developmental challenges, crisis situations, and the emotional labor of student life work.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to normalize mental health conversations and build emotional vocabulary with students from early childhood through adolescence, creating a culture where taking care of mental health is simply part of being healthy

• The integrated, accessible approach to school-based mental health support that removes stigma and makes help-seeking a natural part of student development

• Practical psychological first aid techniques for educators and parents navigating student crises, developmental transitions, and challenging "mismatch years"

• Essential self-care strategies for student life professionals managing the emotional labor of their work, including setting boundaries, building community support, and maintaining daily wellness practices

• Long-game thinking for navigating difficult school years: How to find growth opportunities, build professional stamina, and maintain your north star during seasons of challenge

Featured Guest: Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter is a child clinical psychologist with over 35 years of experience in schools, courts, community health centers, and universities. She served for 26 years at The Park School, pioneering an open-door approach to mental health as a natural part of school life. Currently Clinical Associate Professor at Boston University School of Medicine, she consults with independent schools nationwide on diversity, equity, inclusion, and student well-being. Her leadership includes chairing the APA Ethics Committee, the Massachusetts Board of Licensure for Psychologists, and currently serving as Recording Secretary of the APA Board of Directors. Her book "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid" helps caregivers navigate everything from early childhood through young adulthood.

Recommended Resources: "Parents Guide to Psychological First Aid" by Dr. Olivia Moorehead-Slaughter Dr. Jessica Henderson Daniel - Mentorship and leadership in psychology

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