about the WWC…

The WWC is dedicated to strengthening the school-based mental health workforce at every level—high school, graduate, and in-the-field professionals. Our mission is to increase the number of qualified mental health providers in high-needs school districts. We achieve this by:

  • Expanding career pathways for high school students interested in mental health careers.

  • Supporting graduate students with hands-on training and mentorship.

  • Providing professional development, coaching, and tuition assistance for current school-based mental health professionals.

Through regional collaboration and evidence-based practices, we create lasting support networks to recruit, train, and retain the next generation of mental health providers.

Our Vision

The WWC team is committed to building a strong, sustainable workforce of school-based mental health professionals to ensure that all students have access to high-quality care. We envision a future where every school has well-trained mental health providers equipped to meet the needs of thier students. Through strategic workforce development—recruiting, training, and supporting professionals at every stage, from high school exploration to graduate training and in-the-field advancement—we are creating a pipeline of skilled practitioners dedicated to the well-being of our schools and communities.


RECRUITMENT

Our work begins at the high school level, introducing students to the field through educational programs and mentorship. For graduate students, we offer hands-on internship opportunities that provide real-world experience in school settings. By investing in early exposure and professional training, we are creating a skilled and dedicated workforce ready to support the mental health needs of students and schools.

RESPECIALIZATION

We support the respecialization of professionals looking to transition into school-based mental health careers through tuition assistance and targeted training programs. By providing financial support and specialized coursework, we help qualified individuals gain the skills and credentials needed to work in school settings. This initiative expands the workforce, bringing in experienced professionals from related fields and ensuring that schools have access to well-trained mental health providers ready to meet the needs of students.

RETENTION

We prioritize the retention of school-based mental health professionals by providing ongoing support, coaching, and professional development. Through targeted training, coaching, and skill-building opportunities, we help professionals grow in confidence and effectiveness. Our programs focus on reducing burnout, building self-efficacy, and equipping providers with the tools they need to thrive in the field. By investing in continuous learning and well-being, we strengthen the workforce and ensure lasting, high-quality mental health support for students.

SUSTAINABILITY

We partner with institutions of higher education (IHEs), community agencies, school districts, BOCES, NYSED, OMH, and other key organizations to ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs. Through these collaborations, we align training with workforce needs, secure funding and resources, and build systems that support ongoing recruitment, development, and retention of school-based mental health professionals. By strengthening these partnerships, we create a lasting impact, ensuring that schools continue to have access to a well-trained, dedicated mental health workforce for years to come.

Meet the Team

  • Hennessey Lustica, PhD, LMHC, ACS

    WWC Project Director

  • Stephanie Betts, LMSW

    WWC Project Coordinator

  • Sandra Ordan, Peaceful Schools

    Senior MTSS Consultant

  • Margi Taber, Peaceful Schools

    WWC Mental Health Coordinator

  • Cristi Kuhn, School Counselor, Lyons CSd

    Grow Your Own Coordinator

  • Aaron Backhaus, School Counselor, Geneva CSD

    Grow Your Own Coordinator

  • Nelly Edinger, LMSW, Sodus CSD

    ENL Content Area Specialist

  • Steve Humbert, Retired School Psychologist

    Special Education Content Area Specialist

  • Alexsis Hernandez, PhD

    Access & Opportunity Content Area Specialist

  • Jill Harper, RN

    Pediatric Integration Content Specialist

  • Yinlong Liu, University of Rochester

    Doctoral Assistant