Special to Atmore News
The Escambia County School System has hired Marlo G. Young as its Mental Health Service Coordinator.
Young, who has a master’s degree in counseling / psychology from the University of West Alabama, is the first to hold the newly created position.
“I’m really excited to be a part of the school district,” Young said. “My role is to work with students, families, teachers, and administrators, to identify and address the social / emotional, mental health, and wellness needs of students to help propel our students into success.”
Young comes to Escambia County School District from Coastal Alabama Community College, where she served for the past four years as an Adult Education Instructor, Career Coach, and Adjunct Psychology Instructor and recently as an Instructional Coordinator for the Adult Education Department.
Before Young’s tenure at Coastal Alabama Community College, she worked as a School-based Children’s Therapist with Southwest Alabama Behavioral Healthcare System. In this position, Young was based at the Escambia County High and Middle schools where she offered individual and family counseling services.
Young gained extensive experience in child and adolescent services during her time with SWABHC. She worked with local school systems to provide evidence-based counseling techniques focused on bullying, suicide, and substance abuse prevention.
“I feel that this opportunity has come full circle for me, because it gives me a chance to make a bigger impact, this time around,” Young said. “Mental health is very dear to my heart and I want to help educate our youth on the importance of mental health and bring awareness that mental health is physical health.”
Young’s official start was September 15. She is based at the Escambia County Middle School in Atmore.
Escambia County schools Superintendent John Knott said he appreciated the (ALSDE) Alabama State Department of Education and Alabama legislators for their support in providing the funding for this much needed position.
“This position will help us partner with agencies for needed resources to address mental health issues,” Knott said.