Community in Action
Prioritizing Mental Health for Families: A Conversation with Samaritan Counseling Services
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to break the stigma, spark conversations, and spotlight the support systems that make a difference. At Parenting Matters, we are proud to partner with local organizations like Samaritan Counseling Services, who provide crucial one-on-one mental health care for individuals of all ages in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
In a recent conversation, we sat down with John Gregory, Associate Executive Director and Chief of Staff at Samaritan Counseling Services, to talk about the growing mental health challenges families face and how our collaboration supports healing and resilience in our community.
Anxiety and Transitions: A Growing Concern
John shared that one of the most prevalent concerns among their clients—especially children and teens—is anxiety. This is particularly evident during times of transition, such as the end of the school year, which John aptly called “May-member” due to the overwhelming number of activities and changes families juggle during this month.
Whether students are moving up from sixth grade or graduating high school, the pressure they feel is real—and parents feel it, too. Add to that the constant presence of technology and social media, and it’s no surprise that mental health professionals are seeing more young people struggle with being emotionally overwhelmed.
Support for the Whole Family
Samaritan Counseling Services specializes in outpatient, one-on-one therapy. Their therapists work with individuals, couples, and families—supporting parents, children, or everyone together. This personalized approach helps families navigate challenges with compassion and practical guidance.
At Parenting Matters, we know firsthand how overwhelming today’s world can be for kids. The expectations and testing pressures placed on even the youngest students are more intense than ever before. That’s why partnerships like ours matter.
Stories of Hope
John also shared a powerful success story. A teenager came to them at age 17, struggling with suicidal thoughts. After two years of ongoing therapy, that young person is now thriving. These are the transformations that inspire us and remind us why accessible mental health care is so essential.
A Stronger Community Together
We are grateful for the continued collaboration with Samaritan Counseling Services. Together, we ensure that families in our community not only get the parenting support they need—but also the emotional care that helps them grow stronger, healthier, and more connected.
We continue to prioritize mental wellness—not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but every day of the year.
If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or visit their website. https://988lifeline.org/