Strengthening Schools Through Behavioral Health Supports

Gent Daniels

Program, Director of School Based Health Centers, Cornell Scott Hill Health

Gent Daniels was born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, where he attended West Hill Magnet School and Wilbur Cross High School in 2004. He went on to earn a double major in Human Development and Family Studies & Sociology from the University of Connecticut in 2008, followed by a Master’s degree from the UConn School of Social Work in 2010. 

 

Driven by a passion for community well-being and mental health, Gent began his career as an Intensive In-Home Behavioral Health Clinician, providing direct support to children and families in need. He then worked as a Social Worker in the Emergency Department at Yale New Haven Hospital, serving a diverse population facing a wide range of challenges. His experience also includes serving as a Mental Health Consultant in Juvenile Detention, offering critical support to youth in the justice system. 

 

In 2016, Gent joined Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center as a Clinician in the School-Based Health Centers program. There, he provided individual, group, and family therapy, discovering a deep passion for school-based mental health services. His dedication and impact led to a promotion in 2018 to Assistant Program Director, where he expanded his reach through leadership and program development. 

 

In 2023, Gent became the Behavioral Health Program Director, leading a significant expansion of services across the New Haven, West Haven, and Hamden school districts. Under his leadership, the number of school-based clinicians grew from 11 to 22. 

 

In addition to his leadership role, Gent maintains a private practice in Woodbridge, Connecticut, where he provides therapy to children, adolescents, and young adults. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Association of School-Based Health Centers, where he advocates for the expansion and support of accessible high-quality mental health services for students statewide.