When Dr. Edwin Gomez launched his four initiatives when becoming the Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, he set mental health as a one of those priorities for student success. Since launching the initiatives in 2021, the Mental Health Initiative has made strides in addressing the needs of the overall well-being of students across Riverside County. CAREspace was launched as one of the hubs of social and mental wellness. Led by Dr. Lexi Backstrom, CAREspace has provided thousands of free counseling sessions for students across 23 school districts.

Dr. Edwin Gomez and Dr. Lexi Backstrom sit down for a conversation about how CAREspace has expanded with new services and new information about how to receive help.

For information CAREspace, visit www.rcoe.us/carespace