The Student Assistance Program (SAP) initiative began in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a prevention model geared toward the reduction of suicide risks within the general secondary school population. As a model which integrates community resources such as Drug and Alcohol, Children and Youth, and Mental Health into school SAP teams, this program serves thousands of students annually. The essence of the program is to focus on least restrictive, early intervention by identifying "at risk" behaviors, such as failing grades or sudden changes in affect or behavior which can trigger closer observation and tracking by teachers.

The Student Assistance Program staff are trained, supervised professionals assigned to particular district SAP teams for mental health consultation and evaluation.