News Substance abuse counseling services now available at VSHS

New programs funded by grants obtained through the Above the Influence Coalition and director Keiffa Green will help area families and Vinton-Shellsburg students deal with mental illness and substance abuse problems.

Amy Salger will be at the high school one day per week to offer a variety of services to students experiencing problems with drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Any student is welcome to visit with Amy while she is at the school. The grant funds 12 hours per week, 8 of which take place at VSHS, where Salger uses a small office in the nurse’s station.

Another new service offers mental health counseling and referral services at no charge to local families.

“This will help remove some of the barriers to obtaining those services,” said Ryan Davis, the Assistant Principal at VSHS. Services are free, and available at the school or other local offices, removing the burden of travel as well as the costs of treatment.

Salger, a counselor with the Areas Substance Abuse Council (ASAC) said the program leaders also seek to help “destigmatize” substance abuse issues and help students feel more comfortable addressing them. The services she offers range from early intervention to more advanced treatment and referrals.

While there are a variety of new substances that young people can abuse, the oldest one, alcohol, continues to be a main issue.

Students can contact Salger at the high school or via email at asalger@asac.us.