More than 22 percent of children ages 3 to 17 have mental, emotional, developmental or behavioral health concerns according to the Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health. Researchers in USC’s College of Education received $636,000 from The Duke Endowment to work with high-needs schools in Aiken County to provide evidence-based approaches to school mental health practitioners, meeting the needs of students and families.

“Through this project, we are aiming to foster stronger, more connected communities by enhancing training for school counselors in play therapy and family relationship skills,” says Jessie Guest, Ph.D. “We are excited to support the efforts of Aiken County middle and elementary school counselors in providing evidenced-based services that benefit not only the child, but the entire family.”

The primary investigators on this project is Jessie Guest, Ph.D., and co-investigators are Nicole Silverio,Ph.D.; Ryan Carlson, Ph.D; and Jonathan Ohrt, Ph.D.