Resource Name:Link Counseling Center
Resource Type:Mental/Behavioral/Public Health
Service Type:child, children, early learning, learn, learning, curriculum, school, education, adult, support, fostering, social, mental health, marriage counseling, counseling, family therapy, children therapy, group therapy,
Date Last Updated:February 21, 2024
In 1971 the metropolitan Atlanta community came together to address the emotional and mental health needs of adults, families, couples, youth and children who were experiencing difficulties in various aspects of their lives. Many could not afford mental health services. Clearly an affordable counseling center was needed and The Link Counseling Center, a non-profit charitable organization, was established. A concerned group of citizens in Sandy Springs met under the direction of Gene Steinmann to create a resource for teenagers and their families. Gene Steinmann, along with Mike Disney, worked diligently with county officials, local businesses and Georgia State University to obtain funding and find a home for a much needed community counseling center. The Link was one of the first centers in the nation to become a family counseling center. Today, many of its staff members are considered pioneers in the field of marriage and family therapy as well as experiential psychotherapy.
Greg Dixon was the first Director and Elizabeth Scott the first Clinical Director. The Link, housed in a donated facility, provided with a part-time staff provided 600 pro bono hours of service. Local volunteers were trained to provide telephone counseling. Professionally trained therapist, offered counseling and psychotherapy sessions as well as provided training for the volunteers. Dan Mermin, Harley Strickland, Sherry McHenry and Elaine Gibson were among the first group of professional therapist to work at The Link. Iris Bolton began as a volunteer at The Link in 1971. From 1972 to 2007, Iris served as Executive Director along with Administrative Director Sandra Sacker (1976 – 2001) and Clinical Director Gene Bridges (1976 – present). Iris is currently Director Emeritus.
Since 2007, Executive Directors, Gene Bridges and Janet Mainor along with a committed clinical staff and core of volunteers have continued the mission of The Link to provide affordable mental health services.
The Link Counseling Center, begun in response to community in crisis center, continued to grow as a comprehensive community counseling center. Below are some of the highlights of The Link’s growth.
348 Mount Vernon Hwy NE
Sandy Springs, Georgia 30328-4139
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