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Students with Mental Health Concerns: How the IEP Addresses It — Parent Q&A

Once a student qualifies, what goes into the IEP?

Reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Long, Ph.D. — Director of Special Education, 32 years in public schools.

Present levels that describe how the emotional/behavioral needs affect access; measurable goals (emotional regulation, coping strategies, social interaction, reducing interfering behaviors); related services (often school-based counseling, social work, or school-psychologist check-ins); a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) if behavior is a significant concern; a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) often built from the FBA; and accommodations (breaks, a calm-down space, modified assignments during high-stress periods, check-ins with a trusted adult).

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This is educational information, not legal advice. IDEA, Section 504, FERPA, and state rules may differ by situation.

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