Prevention Services
Big Lots Behavioral Health Prevention Services supports the social-emotional development of young children and teaches them skills to manage their own feelings and behavior.
Suicide prevention education is also taught in a variety of venues, including Columbus City Schools.
The Center for Suicide Prevention and Research also provides services across the region.
The Center for Suicide Prevention and Research (CSPR) is a joint prevention and research program that combines the efforts of Big Lots Behavioral Health Services and The Research Institute aimed at reducing youth suicide.
- The primary prevention focus is implementing the Signs of Suicide (SOS) prevention program in area schools with enhanced support in training for school staff, counselors, and families. SOS is an evidence-based prevention tool that raises awareness of suicide, teaches students about risk factors for depression and suicide, and provides students with ways to access support. The CSPR also trains schools in best practices for depression and suicide screening.
- The CSPR consults with schools and youth-serving organizations on policy regarding suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention (responding to a student suicide). Training of school staff and counselors in risk assessment and safety planning is also offered.
- The CSPR has engaged in national efforts to improve how journalists report on suicide and to promote a dialogue on youth suicide that reduces stigma, highlights practical prevention strategies and informs the community on what to look out for and how to help a youth navigate emotional crises.
Learn More About the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research
The Early Childhood Mental Health program provides services for caregivers/families of children ages birth through kindergarten.
Those services include:
- Parenting groups
- Consultation and training for childcare and preschool teachers
- Treatment for families
Early Childhood Mental Health Treatment
Early Childhood Mental Health Treatment usually includes family therapy. Most sessions are for both the caregiver and child. Sessions look at problem behaviors, parenting stress, behavioral health symptoms and exposure to trauma.
What To Expect
- You will meet with a licensed therapist who is specialized in Early Childhood Mental Health.
- Treatment starts with an evaluation to develop recommendations. During these two appointments, the therapist will meet with the caregiver alone, and with the caregiver and child together. The therapist will also observe how the caregiver and child interact.
- Weekly therapy appointments are expected and can be with the caregiver and child together and with caregiver alone.
Positive Parenting Program (Triple P)
Raising children isn’t always easy. Free parenting groups are available in 13 counties in central Ohio.
The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) gives caregivers new skills to raise confident, healthy children and to build stronger family relationships. It is the most extensively studied, evidence-based parenting program available. A referral for services is not needed.
View Upcoming Triple P Sessions
Consultation and Training
The Early Childhood Mental Health Prevention Team provides free training for educators and behavioral health providers. The team also offers consultation for teachers in child care centers across central Ohio.
The Ohio Expulsion Prevention Partnership Hotline
The statewide Ohio Preschool Expulsion Prevention Partnership hotline offers free immediate help when a child is facing expulsion in their child care or educational program.
Teachers can call 844-678-ABCs (2227) or complete our online request form. Information will immediately be forwarded to an early childhood consultant in your area.
