N※N

Durham Schools Expand Mental Health Services with Alliance Health

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. mental-health-services-with-alliance-health.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 9:05 GMT by WTVD
      Locales: North Carolina, UNITED STATES

Durham, NC - February 21st, 2026 - Durham Public Schools (DPS) today announced a significant expansion of its mental health services for students, solidified through a strengthened partnership with Alliance Health. This initiative isn't simply an addition to existing programs; it represents a fundamental shift towards proactive, comprehensive mental wellbeing support for Durham's youth, a need dramatically underscored by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and broader societal pressures.

While the initial partnership between DPS and Alliance Health focused on basic access to services, the evolved collaboration, officially launched this week, boasts a multi-faceted approach. The expansion will see a considerable increase in the number of qualified mental health professionals - therapists, counselors, social workers, and psychologists - embedded directly within DPS schools. Crucially, the program extends beyond the school walls, providing pathways to vital community-based resources for students and their families.

"We've seen a concerning rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among our students," stated Dr. Sharon Matthews, Superintendent of Durham Public Schools. "The pandemic certainly exacerbated these issues, creating unprecedented levels of stress and isolation. However, we recognize that these challenges predate the pandemic and are rooted in complex factors, including socioeconomic disparities, academic pressures, and social media influences. This partnership with Alliance Health allows us to address these multifaceted needs in a truly holistic way."

The funding for this expansive program comes entirely from Alliance Health, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the wellbeing of Durham County's young people. The allocated funds will facilitate not only the hiring of additional mental health professionals but also the implementation of innovative programs. These programs include evidence-based preventative interventions, early identification screenings, and targeted support groups designed to address specific needs, such as trauma-informed care and grief counseling. A key focus will be placed on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, fostering a school environment where students feel comfortable seeking help.

One new initiative is the 'Wellness Wednesdays' program, scheduled to roll out across all DPS schools in March. This weekly event will incorporate mindfulness exercises, stress-reduction techniques, and peer support activities into the school day, providing students with practical tools to manage their emotional wellbeing. Furthermore, DPS is piloting a telehealth program, leveraging technology to connect students with mental health professionals remotely, improving access for students in rural areas or those with transportation barriers.

"We are incredibly excited to deepen our collaboration with Durham Public Schools," said Kevin Miller, CEO of Alliance Health. "We understand that addressing student mental health requires a collaborative, comprehensive approach. This partnership allows us to pool our resources and expertise to create a system of care that truly meets the needs of Durham's students. We're moving beyond reactive crisis intervention and focusing on prevention and early intervention, which is far more effective in the long run."

The partnership also includes a robust training component for DPS staff. Teachers, administrators, and support staff will receive specialized training in mental health first aid, equipping them to recognize signs of mental distress in students and provide appropriate support and referrals. This training will also cover strategies for creating trauma-sensitive classrooms and promoting positive mental health among students.

Community response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents and educators alike have expressed relief and optimism about the expanded services. Local advocacy groups are praising the initiative as a model for other school districts facing similar challenges. However, some are urging DPS and Alliance Health to ensure equitable access to services for all students, particularly those from marginalized communities who may face additional barriers to care. DPS assures that equity is a cornerstone of the program, with targeted outreach and culturally competent services planned to address the unique needs of diverse student populations.

The DPS-Alliance Health partnership is a powerful testament to the growing recognition of the critical link between mental health and academic success. By prioritizing the wellbeing of its students, Durham Public Schools is investing in the future of the community, creating a supportive environment where all young people can thrive.