Empowering Vermont’s Youth with Prevention, Education, and Support
The Association of Student Assistance Professionals of Vermont (ASAP-VT) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing and promoting the effectiveness of Student Assistance Programs throughout Vermont. For over 30 years, ASAP-VT has advocated for Student Assistance Professionals and prevention professionals working in Vermont schools.
The History of Student Assistance Professionals in Vermont
Vermont’s Student Assistance Program grew from an established workplace-support model into a school-based approach focused on prevention, early identification, education, and connection to resources.
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The Origins From Workplace Support to Student Assistance
Vermont’s Student Assistance Program was modeled after the Employee Assistance Program developed during World War II to help employees address personal and mental health concerns affecting their lives and work.
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Late 1980s The SAP Model Comes to Vermont
Ellen Morehouse developed the Student Assistance Program model that Vermont later adopted. At ASAP-VT’s first conference, Morehouse trained counselors in the approach. Early SAPs worked part time in area high schools, reaching out to students considered at higher risk.
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Today Prevention, Education, and Connection
Student Assistance Professionals provide prevention education, facilitate groups, support staff and parent trainings, and work with school administrators on policies and prevention efforts. SAPs do not provide treatment; instead, they screen, assess, support students, and connect them with appropriate resources.
Over time, Student Assistance Programs in Vermont have evolved into a more consistent school-based model designed to give students access to support without requiring a diagnosis.
New Resource for School Leaders: SAP Guidebook Now Available Here
We're excited to share a powerful new tool for Vermont educators: A Resource Guide for School Administrators, developed by Prevention Works! VT and the Association of Student Assistance Professionals of Vermont.
This guide is designed to help school leaders implement and sustain effective Student Assistance Programs (SAPs) that support students facing substance misuse, mental health challenges, and other barriers to learning. Inside, you'll find:
An overview of the SAP role and how it integrates with school health teams
The six core components of an effective SAP
Legal and confidentiality considerations
Data on youth risk behaviors in Vermont
Practical steps and tools to build or strengthen your program