About Us

Our Mission

We are a nationally recognized leader providing innovative and effective mental health services, integrated care of mind and body through strategic partnerships, sustainable programs that enrich communities, and advocacy of the health of youth, adults, and families.

Our Vision

A vibrant community of healthy individuals and families achieving their fullest potential.

Our History

What is now Child Guidance & Family Solutions began in the late 1930s as Child Guidance Center. It was established by a community group, The Junior League of Akron, to “provide mental hygiene for children.” The Agency was later known as Akron Child Guidance Centers and in 2003, merged with Family Solutions to become Child Guidance & Family Solutions, serving the entire family – children, teens, adults, and families.

We are Recognized Locally, Regionally and Nationally

Child Guidance & Family Solutions has enjoyed local, regional and national recognition for its service quality. The Agency is recognized for its home-based services, its innovative partnership programs addressing the needs of individuals with early-onset psychosis, and its evidence-based programs addressing the social-emotional learning needs of young children.

Child Guidance & Family Solutions is certified by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) and is accredited by The Joint Commission, having earned its Gold Seal of Approval.

We Offer Specialized Mental Health Care

We have a staff of more than 100 mental health professionals – child psychiatrists, psychiatric advanced practice nurses, therapists, therapeutic behavior specialists, and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultants.

We offer specialty services in areas including anxiety, depression, suicide prevention, trauma, ADHD, behaviorial concerns, intensive home-based treatment, substance use treatment, mental health prevention and education services, group counseling, early childhood consultation, crisis intervention, sexual behavior problems, early treatment of psychosis, family counseling, LGBTQ+ support, and specialized mental health services for refugees.

Explore our Services and Programs to learn more about the many ways we can help you, your child, your family, and our community to address mental health concerns.

We Encourage Early Learning Success

To encourage early learning success, we offer the Toddlers and Preschoolers Succeeding (TAPS) Program in selected preschools and childcare centers, Building Resilience in Children (BRIC) in grades K-2, and Incredible Years Group (IY®) in school and office settings. These programs help reduce the number of preschool expulsions, improve Kindergarten readiness, reduce aggression, and enhance social-emotional skills.

We Meet You Where You Are

Our clinicians meet you where you are – in our Summit County CGFS offices, in pediatricians’ offices, on-site in elementary, middle, and high schools, in your home, at child care centers, via telehealth – wherever is most convenient for you.

Inclusion & Opportunity

At Child Guidance & Family Solutions, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and has an equal opportunity to succeed. Our focus is on creating a culture of inclusion and belonging, driven by merit, and ensuring that every employee has the chance to thrive, contributing to our shared mission through their unique skills and dedication.