Beartooth Offers Student Behavioral Health Services and Advocates Bullying Prevention

Beartooth Offers Student Behavioral Health Services and Advocates Bullying Prevention

For Immediate Release
October 5, 2026

Red Lodge, MT – Beartooth Billings Clinic is expanding access to behavioral health services for students in grades K-12, helping more young people receive timely mental health support close to home.

With increasing rates of anxiety, depression, stress, and other emotional challenges among youth, early intervention can make a lasting difference. Through Beartooth’s Integrated Behavioral Health program, students can access care before concerns become crises.

Students experiencing mental health or behavioral challenges can begin by seeing a medical provider to rule out underlying physical causes. When appropriate, they may be referred directly to a behavioral health clinician for further support. Follow-up appointments are available in person, through telehealth, or at participating schools, making care more convenient and accessible for Carbon County families.

“This drive for pediatric care is important for our communities,” said Chris Faulkner, Licensed Professional Counselor and Behavioral Health Coordinator at Beartooth Billings Clinic. “When youth mental health needs go unaddressed, it can impact attendance, academic performance, relationships, confidence, and overall well-being. We like to help our youth build self-esteem and find their voice.”

The message is especially important during National Bullying Prevention Month in October. Bullying and mental health are closely linked, with students who experience bullying facing higher risks of anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem, and emotional distress. To raise awareness, Beartooth Billings Clinic encourages schools, businesses, organizations, and community members to participate in Unity Day on October 21, 2026, by wearing and sharing the color orange.

Why Orange? Orange was chosen because it is highly visible, associated with safety, reflects the fall season, and was not previously connected to another major national cause. More importantly, orange is a symbol of unity. Wearing orange sends a powerful message that those who have experienced bullying are not alone while promoting kindness, acceptance, inclusion, and respect for all.

Behavioral health services are available to students with or without insurance. Beartooth encourages schools and families to work together to identify students who may benefit from support and to continue fostering a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength.

“We’re asking school staff, parents, families, and peers to help us identify students who may be struggling,” said Katie Lancaster, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Beartooth Billings Clinic. “Early intervention can build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and improve outcomes both in and out of the classroom. It can truly be life-changing.”

Through accessible behavioral health care, early intervention, and a shared commitment to bullying prevention, we can help ensure every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

About Beartooth Billings Clinic
Beartooth Billings Clinic is committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves through accessible, compassionate healthcare and programs that support the physical, emotional, and mental health of individuals and families throughout Carbon County.