DeKalb County Invests $100,000 in School-Based Counseling

JOHNS CREEK, Ga., Nov. 6, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Summit Counseling Center has received a significant boost in its efforts to support student mental health, thanks to a $100,000 investment from the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners. Approved on October 27, 2026, this funding will expand access to school-based counseling at Peachtree Middle School and Dunwoody Elementary School.

Commissioner Robert Patrick played a key role in securing this investment, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the mental health needs of students in DeKalb County. According to the DeKalb County Community Needs Assessment, 61% of local youth reported experiencing stress sometimes or always during the 30 days preceding the 2021-2022 survey. This underscores the critical importance of making mental health resources available where students spend much of their time.

The Summit Counseling Center, founded in 1990, has been dedicated to providing compassionate, professional mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. Through its school-based counseling program, the organization partners with local schools to connect students with licensed mental health professionals during the school day. These services address a wide range of emotional, social, and behavioral challenges, including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, grief, and peer relationships.

This investment from DeKalb County will help The Summit Counseling Center continue to provide essential services to students who may otherwise face barriers to accessing professional counseling. The funding will support mental health counseling provided by The Summit Counseling Center at Peachtree Middle School and Dunwoody Elementary School, ensuring that students have access to professional mental health support in a familiar, accessible school environment.

The Summit Counseling Center recognizes Commissioner Robert Patrick for his leadership in securing this funding and his dedication to understanding the mental health needs of students and families throughout DeKalb County. His efforts reflect a shared commitment to strengthening communities by investing in the emotional well-being of young people. The support of DeKalb County and its leadership helps The Summit Counseling Center continue providing essential services to students who may otherwise face challenges accessing professional counseling.

The need for these services continues to be significant. The DeKalb County Community Needs Assessment highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local youth, with 61% reporting stress. These findings reinforce the importance of making mental health resources available where students spend much of their time.

The Summit Counseling Center's partnership with DeKalb County Public Schools is crucial for making school-based mental health services possible. Together, they are working to create healthier schools, stronger families, and a community where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.