Daybreak Health Enhances Wake County's School-Based Mental Health Services

Wake County Schools is enhancing mental health support for students through a partnership with Daybreak Health, a virtual mental health platform. During the Community Engagement Committee meeting on August 12, 2025, representatives from Daybreak Health highlighted their commitment to providing equitable access to culturally competent mental health services for students in the district.

Britney Wendy, a community outreach liaison for Daybreak, shared that the organization aims to serve over 2 million students nationwide, with a focus on North Carolina. Currently, they are expanding their services in Wake County, which is recognized as the largest county in the state. Daybreak employs over 400 clinicians specializing in child and youth mental health, with a significant percentage identifying as BIPOC and speaking multiple languages, including Spanish and Mandarin.

One of the key features of Daybreak's services is rapid access to care, promising that students can be seen within two weeks of a referral, provided all necessary paperwork is completed promptly. The platform offers a range of mental health services, including individual therapy and family teletherapy, catering to students aged 5 to 19. Wendy emphasized the importance of flexibility in scheduling, with sessions available from 8 AM to 8 PM, Monday through Saturday, to accommodate working parents.

The partnership also includes unlimited referrals for students, educational content for parents, and the introduction of pro bono cases for students in need. Daybreak's approach focuses on early intervention and preventative care, aiming to address various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and academic stress.

In the 2024-2025 school year, 290 students were referred to Daybreak, with 127 actively participating in programs. However, challenges remain, particularly with obtaining parental consent and navigating insurance complexities. The team is actively working to address these barriers to ensure more students can access the support they need.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in Wake County's efforts to prioritize mental health and well-being among students, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of mental health services in educational settings. As the program continues to develop, it aims to foster a supportive environment for students and families, ensuring that mental health resources are readily available and accessible.