Ever leave a school meeting wondering if you’re “doing enough” for your kids… and also somehow feel like your “doing it wrong”?

In this episode of Unlocking School Success, I’m joined by Brianna Cullen, a pediatric psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, to talk about what parents really need to know when understanding ADHD Medication & Mental Health Support at School.

What you’ll learn:

• How mental health nurse practitioners can support kids and families and why many parents don’t realize this option exists.
• What providers look at when deciding whether medication might help (academic, social, and home functioning).
• Why medication decisions should be a family decision (and a kid decision), not something dictated by school pressure.
• How to think about meds as “a tool, not a forever path” including the reality of trial-and-error.
• Why collaboration with teachers can be key feedback when evaluating whether a medication is helping.
• How stigma and guilt show up for parents and how supportive care can change everything.
• Why untreated ADHD can increase long-term risks (including impulsivity and substance use) and why early support matters.

This episode will help if:

• You feel overwhelmed by school feedback and you’re wondering if medication is being suggested too quickly.
• You’re nervous about side effects, stigma, or “making the wrong choice” for your child.
• You live in a rural area (or anywhere with long waitlists) and need more clarity on care options like telehealth.
• You want a provider who partners with your family without pushing a one-size-fits-all plan.
• You’re trying to support a child with ADHD, anxiety, or big emotional/behavioral challenges impacting school. 

Full show notes here: https://www.reframeparenting.com/blog/adhd-medication-mental-health-support-school

Quick Links:

• SkyLake Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Clinic (Southern Oregon) — referral-based; telehealth available in Oregon
• Gifted and Distractible: Understanding, Supporting, and Advocating for Your Twice Exceptional Child by Julie F. Skolnick (book recommendation)

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