Wilmington Schools Offer Mental Health Support
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"I feel like [HelloHero, a third-party mental health service] is problem solving and just open to anything for the sake of the kids... and that's been very helpful," stated Natalie Harmeling, Director of Pupil Services at Wilmington City Schools (WCS), located at 341 S Nelson Avenue. Through her position, Harmeling handles working with students and problem-solving.
Roughly one year ago, HelloHero, a family-centered wellness organization, reached out to WCS, as they believed they could properly support the demographic of local students and solve the district's concern about access to mental health services. After several meeting with district staff, administration determined that the program would be a great fit and HelloHero began offering mental health services to students in each building in the Wilmington City School District.
Harmeling is a "lifelong member" of Clinton County and began her career teaching locally. In 2004, she started working for WCS and held numerous positions, including assistant principal, principal, and her current position as director of pupil services. She was excited to take on her current position due to its focus on students and problem-solving.
The program officially began in WCS in August of 2025. Currently, they have over 70 students enrolled in the program with active treatment plans and more students interested.
Prior to coming to WCS, HelloHero began in 2017 and provides mental health support to schools in several states. They offer group wellness circles, individualized support, and crisis intervention all operated by licensed therapists. Students first complete paperwork with their parents, receive an assessment, and are then given a personal treatment plan.
The wellness circles are free, small groups that meet once or more a week to work on dysregulation, coping strategies, anxiety, loss of loved ones, and more depending on need. Harmeling also hopes to do summer programming and plans to offer virtual sessions. In addition, HelloHero offers family and parent support services at varying costs.
Learn more about HelloHero at wilmingtoncityschools.com.