This is a press release.
Foster parents face immense challenges in supporting children with complex trauma and mental health needs. In response, Amerigroup Georgia has partnered with renowned foster care expert Dr. John DeGarmo to provide free training sessions across the state, equipping caregivers with essential resources and support.
At Saturday’s discussion in Statesboro, Dr. DeGarmo addressed the critical mental health needs of foster children, and the unique challenges foster parents face in navigating trauma, burnout, and behavioral health concerns.
Drawing from his personal experience as a longtime foster parent, Dr. DeGarmo provided insight and strategies to help caregivers create stable and healing environments for children in care. The event emphasized the growing demand for mental health resources and support services for foster families, particularly as they navigate an evolving healthcare landscape.
“Foster parents are on the front lines of childhood trauma, yet they often lack the support they need to help these children heal,” said Dr. DeGarmo, founder and director of The Foster Care Institute. “As Georgia transitions to a new Medicaid provider for children in foster care, there are growing concerns about access to critical services—especially for mental health care and autism therapy.”
Georgia’s foster care system is undergoing a major shift as a result of the recent Medicaid procurement process, which determines how healthcare services are provided to the state’s most vulnerable children. The process has faced scrutiny for inconsistencies, transparency concerns, and questions about the new provider’s ability to meet the complex needs of foster children. Advocates and caregivers worry that the new system may disrupt access to essential services, particularly for children with autism and behavioral health needs.
“If families lose access to critical services, it could have devastating long-term effects on the well-being of Georgia’s most vulnerable youth.” added Dr. DeGarmo. “Now more than ever, foster parents need essential training to support children facing complex trauma and mental health challenges.”
Since 2014, Amerigroup Georgia has served as the sole care management organization for Georgia Families 360° (GF360), coordinating healthcare for approximately 32,000 children, including those in foster care, adoption assistance, and select juvenile justice programs. Foster parents seeking additional resources and support are encouraged to contact their care coordinators and local advocacy organizations to stay informed about upcoming changes.
About Dr. John DeGarmo
Dr. John DeGarmo is an international expert in parenting and foster care and is a TEDx Talk presenter. Dr. John is the founder and director of The Foster Care Institute. As foster parents, he and his wife have had over 60 children come through their home. He and his wife have received many awards, including the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award. He can be contacted at drjohndegarmo@gmail.com, or at the Foster Care Institute.
