Augusta University announced a $1 million donation on April 21.
Emily Baumann donated the amount to the Emily S. Baumann Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy Fund, according to a news release from Augusta University.
“As a music therapist, I worked in the area of mental health for many years. So, I understand the importance of therapy, especially for our young people today,” said Baumann. “I see all of these horrible things they are facing and it seems there is stress everywhere they turn, especially during this past year.”
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Georgia is experiencing a rise in the number of children diagnosed with mental health disorders, but the shortage of mental health care providers is making it hard for parents to get their children the care they need.
With the nationwide shortage of pediatric psychiatrists and some health insurance agencies not covering behavioral health services, children are oftentimes left waiting for months to get the help they need.
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The fund was created in March 2016 and has been used to pay for mental health services by trainees. It has garnered nearly $285,000 in donations from more than 50 donors and has also provided more than 3,500 hours of therapy sessions.
“In Georgia, Medicaid insurance does not pay for psychotherapy provided by trainees. Without that option, these children could linger on a waiting list for an appointment with one of only a handful of child and adolescent psychiatrists at MCG and in the surrounding area,” said Dr. Sandra Sexon, chief of child and adolescent psychiatry at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.
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“The generous contribution of Emily Baumann will allow Augusta University to meet the needs of one of Georgia’s most vulnerable populations – its youth – by ensuring our state’s young people have access to respected mental health experts and resources both now and into the future,” said Augusta University President Brooks Keel.
Baumann’s gift was part of Augusta University’s Augusta Gives Campaign April 21. This was the second year the Augusta Gives campaign was held. In fall 2020, the campaign raised more than $1 million.
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