Wake County Behavioral Health Department Launches Comprehensive Review of Services and Gaps

Wake County Schools celebrated a significant milestone in mental health support during the Community Engagement Committee meeting on August 12, 2025. The meeting highlighted impressive statistics, revealing that 90% of students experienced clinical improvement in their mental health assessments over the past year. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the district's mental health initiatives.

Michael, a key speaker at the meeting, reported that 138 campuses across Wake County are now activated for mental health services, with more expected to join soon. He emphasized the urgency of connecting students with qualified therapists, noting that they can be matched within just six days of receiving consent. This rapid response is crucial in addressing the mental health needs of students.

The meeting also showcased the importance of community engagement, with representatives discussing their efforts to facilitate training for school counselors and social workers. They have been actively participating in open houses and family engagement nights, providing resources and information to families about available mental health services.

Denise, the new director of mental health, spoke about the collaborative efforts between Wake County government and the school system. She highlighted the county's commitment to investing approximately $30 million annually in community providers, ensuring that a safety net for mental health services exists without the county directly providing those services.

Looking ahead, the county plans to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a comprehensive study of behavioral health services in Wake County. This study aims to identify gaps in services and explore best practices from other communities. The findings will guide future investments and strategies to enhance mental health support for families and youth.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the need for continued collaboration among community partners to address the evolving mental health needs of students and families in Wake County. As the county moves forward, the focus remains on creating an integrated behavioral health system that supports the well-being of all residents.