Before Jason Sussman turned 2, his outbursts were so intense that no preschool would accept him. “We didn’t know where to turn,” his mother Jen recalled.
Jason’s parents searched tirelessly and found Adventist HealthCare’s The Lourie Center for Children’s Social & Emotional Wellness, a groundbreaking organization whose mission is improving the social and emotional health of young children and their families. Its mental health services focus on prevention, early intervention, education, research and training through four programs: Early Head Start, a Therapeutic Nursery, The Lourie Center School and a clinic that is part of the Parent-Child Services.
Attending the Lourie Center School became a turning point in Jason’s young life.
His first years in mainstream elementary school had been tough. Jason faced isolation, behavioral contracts, that heightened his loneliness since no other students were on them, and emotional outbursts without the support he needed. Entering The Lourie Center in second grade changed everything. “I wasn’t alone,” he said. “It was flexible, fun and supportive.” There, he discovered chess, a game that taught him structure, strategy and a sense of control. History became his escape, a place where stories had meaning; people overcame odds.
After graduating from The Lourie Center School in 2018, Jason’s growth continued in mainstream middle and high school. He faced bullying and setbacks, including being cut from the baseball team, but persevered. He trained relentlessly and earned a junior varsity starting spot his sophomore year, a triumphant moment he equates with graduating from The Lourie Center.
Also, Jason’s passion for inclusion blossomed. He served as president of Gaithersburg High School’s chapter of Best Buddies International, doubling membership and organizing impactful events for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jason’s leadership earned statewide and international recognition. Now, he’s in college and continuing his work with the organization.
He’s also studying special education, hoping to become the kind of teacher who once helped him. He plans to return to The Lourie Center one day, as a teacher. Jason already has experience being in front of the school’s students. In May 2025, he addressed its graduating class.
He says his time at The Lourie Center shaped not just who he is but who he hopes to become. “I want to leave an impact,” Jason said. “Even if it’s just one kid, that’s something. But I’m aiming higher, I want to help change lives.”
If your child is facing emotional or behavioral challenges, The Lourie Center is here to support you. Learn more about its programs.
