Free Student Counseling Program Launches in Tuscaloosa Schools

The Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation is stepping up in a major way to support student mental health right here in Tuscaloosa.

The organization has officially launched the A.C.C.E.S.S. Program, which stands for Awareness, Counseling, Connection, Empowerment, Safety and Support. The new initiative will provide free and confidential counseling services for students in both Tuscaloosa City Schools and the Tuscaloosa County School System.

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According to the press release sent to Townsquare Media, the foundation is committing fifty thousand dollars to the program, allowing eligible students to receive up to five free counseling sessions. Those sessions will be provided by licensed mental health professionals through a partnership with Jenkins Richardson and Associates Counseling and Consulting.

The A.C.C.E.S.S. Program is designed to support students ages nine through fourteen, primarily those in grades three through eight, as they navigate stress, emotions and everyday life challenges in a safe and compassionate environment.

“Our organization recognizes the barriers to accessing mental health services, and we hope this initiative helps bridge the gap,” said JacQuan D. Winters, executive director of the Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation, according to the press release. “A.C.C.E.S.S. provides students with timely, compassionate and professional support to make sure their mental health needs are met.”

Dr. Kimberly Jenkins Richardson, executive director of Jenkins Richardson and Associates, also emphasized the importance of the partnership. “This program fills a crucial gap in youth mental health access in our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support students through safe, accessible and compassionate counseling services,” she said, according to the release.

School leaders echoed that impact as well. Tesney Davis of Tuscaloosa City Schools and Angela Kelly of Tuscaloosa County Schools both expressed gratitude, noting that the program removes barriers and expands access to much needed mental health resources for students and families.

The foundation also thanked its sponsors, including the Daniel Foundation, Hewson Family Foundation, National Association of REALTORS and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Caring Foundation, whose support makes the program possible.

More information about the A.C.C.E.S.S. Program can be found at kristenamersonyouth.org.