Joretta Strayhorn-Walton, MAEd, MA, NCC, LPC

Joretta Strayhorn-Walton is an experienced mental health professional and licensed school counselor with over two decades of expertise in child therapy, counseling, and educational support services. She currently serves as a therapist with Gaggle, providing remote therapeutic support focused on the well-being and development of children and adolescents. Joretta is known for her compassionate and holistic approach to mental health, combining clinical knowledge with a deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s youth.

Since 2009, Joretta has worked as a Student Assistance Counselor with the South Plainfield Board of Education, where she leads school-based counseling programs, collaborates with educators and families, and implements preventive and developmental initiatives to support student success. Her earlier roles include leadership positions such as Northern Regional Director at The Lester A. Drenk Behavioral Health Center, and specialized consultant work addressing substance abuse issues at both New York Foundling and St. Vincent’s Services. Across all roles, she has demonstrated a consistent commitment to program development, staff supervision, and community engagement.

Joretta holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from Kean University, with qualifications as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She also earned a Master’s in Health Education from East Carolina University, with a focus on families and substance abuse. Her professional skill set includes child therapy, individualized education planning, and substance abuse education, making her a versatile and impactful leader in school and clinical counseling settings.

• Kean University
• East Carolina University

• LPC
• NCC

She is the author of ABC-123, a children's book designed to support early learning and development. Additionally, she developed specialized protocols for supporting students with addiction-related challenges within the school district, enhancing the district’s ability to provide effective, compassionate intervention and support services.