Dr. Carol Dahlen BSHS, CMHC, SEL Coach, CTP-C, PsyD

Dr. Carol Dahlen is the Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Behavioral Consultant for the
Merrillville High School. Dr. Dahlen holds certifications in trauma as a Trauma Practitioner
Clinical, Social & Emotional Learning, Restorative Practices (discipline through non-punitive
measures), and The Virtues Project™ (character development). She is a member of several
committees within the school district. In addition, Carol Dahlen assists with the school district’s
educational diversity & inclusion workshops and professional development programs in trauma
and SEL. She also assists with Merrillville’s Alternative School Program in the role of
Behavioral Consultant and Therapeutic Counselor. Carol Dahlen holds a doctorate in psychology
from California Southern University.

Email her or call 219-650-5307 ext. 7292 

Brandon Freeland MSW,LSW

Brandon Freeland, MSW LSW began his career in the mental health profession 25 years ago as an
Activity Therapist and Case Manager. Brandon worked with chronically mental ill, Dual Diagnosis and at-
risk youth.

In 2005, Brandon earned his Masters in Social Work degree and began working with young
Children , Adolescents and families through Community Mental Health and Private Mental Health
Agencies. Brandon continues this work currently as he works as a Home based Therapist and provides
crisis intervention for probation and DCS cases.

Most recently Brandon has joined the Merrillville High School staff as a Social Worker providing support, guidance and life skill strategies to Merrillville High School students.

Email him or call 219-650-5307 ext.  5338

Annette Brown-Gilliam, MSW,LSW,LSSW

Annette Brown-Gilliam has been with Merrillville Community Schools as a social worker since
2012. Prior to her coming to Merrillville School District, she worked as a Licensed School Social
Worker for Gary Community School Corporation for 12 years. She earned her Bachelor of
Science Degree in Criminology from Indiana State University and a Master of Social Work
Degree from Indiana University Northwest.  She is also a Licensed Social Worker. She has 26
years of experience in the field of social work and 22 years of experience as a school social
worker.   
 
Mrs. Brown-Gilliam is committed to providing the students at Merrillville High School with the
tools and knowledge they need to become successful after graduation.  

Email her or call: 219-650-5307 ext. 5452

Kimberly Collins, Family and Community Engagement Specialist

Email her or call 219-650-5307 ext.  5338