Prioritizing Youth Mental Health: Summit Counseling Center’s Onsite Therapy Program
[Johns Creek, Georgia] Did you know that mental health support in schools is often lacking? Recent data from a 2022 Pew Research Center survey revealed that only about half of U.S. public schools offer mental health assessments, and even fewer provide treatment services – meaning that many students who may be struggling with their emotions are not receiving the support they need. Research has shown that school connectedness (how much youth believe that adults and peers at school genuinely care about them and want them to succeed) plays a significant role in mental health. Youth who experience a strong sense of connectedness during middle and high school are less likely to encounter problems with substance use, mental health, suicidality, and risky sexual behavior as they become adults (Steiner, R. J., et al., Pediatrics, Vol. 144, No. 1, 2019).
Our Summit OnSite school-based therapy program seeks to bridge the gap. Our highly skilled therapists are physically present in 31 public and private schools across Fulton, Dekalb, and Gwinnett counties so students can receive professional therapy right within the familiar environment of their own schools, making it easier for them to access the help they need. Our program is specifically designed to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges. Therapists work closely with school staff to establish a comprehensive support system that nurtures emotional well-being and resilience.
Our program is now accepting referrals for the 2023-2024 school year. If you believe your student could benefit from our nonprofit services, visit our website or fill out a school-based therapy referral application here. Together, let’s prioritize youth mental health, foster school connectedness, and ensure that every student receives the guidance they need to lead happier and healthier lives!
For media inquiries, please contact Cathy Murphy, Director of Community Outreach, at (678) 893-5304 or at cmurphy@summitcounseling.org.
About Summit Counseling Center
Since 1990, Summit Counseling Center has brought hope and healing to people in need at every stage of life, providing a wide range of specialty services for individuals, couples, and families. Summit therapists offer professional counseling integrating body, mind, spirit, and relationships. For more information about The Summit and its DBT program, please visit summitcounseling.org.