School-based mental health program welcomes Alyssa Sherwood

Gundersen St. Joseph's commitment to providing mental health services to the community continues with the recent addition of Alyssa Sherwood, MSW to the team.

Sherwood graduated in May 2019 with a master's degree in social work from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Sherwood will be providing school-based services at Wonewoc-Center and Hillsboro School Districts through a partnership between the schools and Gundersen St. Joseph's Hospital and Clinics. The program has been in place since 2016. "This program has been a success and we are very proud of this collaboration with our local schools," says McCoic. "We also have Darcy Gaston providing services at Royall School District."

"Mental health is such an important aspect of our overall health," adds McCoic. "As we learn more about the life-long health impacts of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), we understand that childhood mental health is incredibly important. By providing this service, we are increasing our children's chances of living healthy, more prosperous lives when they reach adulthood."

"The School District is very appreciative of our ongoing relationship with Gundersen St. Joseph's Hospital and Clincs that allows us to offer this mental health support to our students," says Curt Bisarek, superintendent of Hillsboro School District. "With the increase in the number of students dealing with mental health-related issues, we believe it is necessary to find ways to increase access to therapists and other supports."

When asked what patients can expect from her, Sherwood responded, "I'm working hard to develop my own practice styIe. Therapy is changing, human needs are changing, the world is changing and it's really exciting to me. Therapy is more than just laying on a couch talking about your feelings. Therapy includes movement, music, play, animals, activities, art, and personal interests."

"I just like advocating for humans," says Sherwood. "Ever since I started graduate school, I wanted to work in a clinic and I'm so excited to be working with Gundersen St. Joseph's. I'm looking forward to playing a role in the health of this community."