Q&A: Director talks new role, mental health in students

Editor's note: This is one in a continuing series of interviews with local officials. Dr. Carlton Lewis is the director of mental health for Clovis Municipal Schools.

Q: You have recently accepted the position as director of mental health for Clovis schools. Tell us about this position. What does it involve?

A: The role is multifaceted, encompassing a range of responsibilities. My team and I will plan, implement, and coordinate events and programs focused on mental health.

I will also evaluate the district's mental health and social work services to ensure their effectiveness.

As the director, I will provide orientation and training tailored to the specific needs of our staff. Additionally, I will collaborate with various departments outside of and within CMS to ensure the well-being of both students and staff.

Q: What have you learned during your time as a psychologist and working in behavioral health for students?

A: I have learned quite a bit working in this profession, but I'll just name a few.

I've learned that it is extremely important to recognize the importance of self-care to maintain your own well being and effectiveness as a professional.

Very early on in my program of study being flexible was highlighted in our discussions. Adaptability is extremely important in this career path. We all have to be flexible and ready to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the students, staff, and environment.

Developing strong communications skills is a must and it will help in effectively conveying information to colleagues, parents, and students. A crisis will occur, big or small, and it's important to have the skill set to handle a crisis effectively ensuring the safety and well being of all.

Q: What differences have you noticed between younger and older students?

A: I have been able to work with students from elementary to secondary while being here in this school district. The difference that I have noticed is that they still want the same things: attention, support, understanding, love, discipline.

They just go about getting those needs met in different ways for the most part. So it is very important to show that care for all and understanding each person is usually doing the best they know how to do.

We just teach them how to get those needs met in a more appropriate and helpful way.

Q: Mental health is a major issue that surely doesn't get the attention it should. How do you advocate for the importance of mental health within Clovis schools?

A: We work together to strengthen multidisciplinary teams that focus on mental health. We include our school psychologists, counselors, social workers and nurses.

We provide professional development training to staff on mental health awareness: signs of suicide, bullying, threats, etc., identification of issues, and intervention strategies.

These plans are also part of our district's policies and procedures. We also work with community agencies to bring in additional expertise and resource information.

We listen to the students and provide them with opportunities to share their experiences and perspectives on mental health.

Q: You started a private practice in 2010. What made you want to extend your services to the entire community?

A: We recognized a significant need for enhanced mental health services in the city and surrounding areas. Our goal is to provide parents and students with accessible services that do not require missing school or work.

By offering convenient options for counseling and other mental health services, we aim to reduce barriers to care and support the well-being of our community. We found a need and filled it.

Q: What can you tell teachers and parents about what to watch for in terms of mental illness among youth? What are serious warning signs that might suggest a student is likely to commit violence?

A: I would say looking for noticeable changes in behavior. For example, withdrawal, aggression, sudden and frequent outburst of anger, extreme irritability.

These changes could also indicate there may be issues of concern; changes in thinking, risk-taking behaviors increase, changes in eating, sleeping patterns, social withdrawal. The child is exhibiting excessive fears, worries, sadness for prolonged periods of time, crying, to name a few.

There are a few potential warning signs that a person may be a risk to commit violence: If the person has made a direct threat or talks about violence. If the person has an aggressive/violent behavior history or struggles with intense rage and anger. These are just a few potential warning signs; one or two alone may not indicate a propensity for violent behavior, but a combination should definitely be taken seriously.

If direct threats are being made and talks of violence, these types of behaviors should always be taken seriously.

When assessing risk, sometimes the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in your new role as director of mental health? Sny specific goals you hope to achieve?

A: I hope to create a positive environment and school culture that prioritizes mental health and well being for both students and staff while also promoting resilience and emotional health.

I plan to continue working to advocate for policies and practices that promote mental health and well being in the schools.

I want to continue working to ensure all students have access to high quality mental health services, support, and appropriate referrals into the community when needed.

I hope to provide quality training and support for teachers, administration, staff, and parents to recognize and respond to mental health issues appropriately and effectively.

I also would like to strengthen the current relationships we have with community mental health agencies and establish partnerships with the new agencies.

- Compiled by Landry Sena, the Staff of the News