SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s nonprofit community mental health agency, is proud to spotlight the contributions of Hetty Thomae, a current board member and a pivotal figure in the inception of our school-based services program in the early 1990s. Thomae’s journey reflects not only the evolution of a transformative program, but also her unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of children and families.
In 1992, while pursuing her graduate degree in therapy at Antioch University in New Hampshire, Thomae embarked on her first internship. This internship, through The Family Place, placed her in a pilot program at the State Street School in Windsor. Collaborating with Jo Levkoff and school counselor Mary Bronga, Thomae worked closely with students and their families in what was then an experimental initiative. Thomae’s creative and hands-on approach left an indelible mark on the children she served.
Among her cherished memories is organizing a boys’ group where she led activities ranging from basketball games to innovative drumming sessions. Using soft pom-poms on sticks, the boys created rhythmic beats on a drum – until a teacher upstairs intervened due to the noise. These activities, combined with Thomae’s educational expertise, allowed her to connect deeply with the children, many of whom faced challenges at home. Thomae also remembers working alongside Jeana Embers, an intern specializing in advanced movement therapy, further enriching the program’s offerings.
Though this initial program ended after a year, it laid the groundwork for what would become HCRS’ School-Based Services program.
In 1993, HCRS formally established its Success Beyond Six services within the children’s division, and Thomae was among its first clinicians. Hired by Ellie Anderson, Thomae brought her invaluable experience from the pilot program to this new initiative. Her early work included collaborating with Joann Unruh, and serving clients at HCRS’ outpatient office in White River Junction, located above the Food Co-op.
After about two years, Thomae transitioned to Woodstock Elementary School as a school-based clinician. There, she formed a close partnership with the school counselor, Donna Sweaney (who would later become a state representative), and the school’s special educator. Thomae relished the unique opportunities that working in a school environment provided. Unlike traditional office-based therapy, being embedded within the school allowed Thomae to observe her clients in their natural environment, and tailor her therapeutic interventions accordingly.
Thomae’s time with HCRS concluded in 1997, when she pursued another passion, teaching drama. However, her impact on HCRS’ school-based services remains foundational. Thomae’s pioneering efforts and innovative spirit helped shape a program that continues to provide critical support to students and their families. Today, Thomae’s love for supporting others persists through her private practice serving children and families, exemplifying her lifelong dedication to enriching the lives of others.
Thomae’s journey from graduate student to program pioneer and HCRS board member reflects a career steeped in compassion, creativity, and a commitment to community wellbeing. Her work reminds us of the profound difference one person can make in the lives of others. As we continue to build on the foundation she helped establish with an HCRS program that today serves more than 200 students across 15 local school districts, we are honored to recognize Thomae for her contributions and her enduring legacy in school-based mental health services.