Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative
CYBHI: What it is
The Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) is a statewide effort focused on improving access to emotional wellness and mental health support for children and families across California. As part of this initiative, Downey Unified School District has partnered with Healthy Campus to help streamline and support the well-being services already available to students on our campuses.
Why it Matters
Through this partnership, the District may receive reimbursement from insurance providers for eligible services provided at school. This process does not change the care students receive and is designed to help schools continue expanding access to supportive services for students and families.
By participating in this initiative, Downey Unified School District can recover costs for services already provided to students. This allows us to:
- Sustain our high standards of mental health support
- Maintain resources available to students and families
- Keep services free for every family in our community
Take Action: Submit Your Student’s Insurance Info
Please share your student’s health insurance details with us by filling out the form in the Parent Connection Portal.
How the Program Works
Who Can Get Services? (Eligibility)
This program will not change your child’s current eligibility for school behavioral health services. Instead, it expands care for everyone by creating a better way for insurance companies to pay providers directly.
Whether your child is covered by Medi-Cal, a standard commercial health plan, or a disability insurer, they can receive care at school, and the providers will be reimbursed through the state’s CYBHI rate system.
Privacy and Consent
We may ask you to share your student’s health insurance details. Please rest assured that all health information is kept completely secure and is only shared in strict compliance with state and federal privacy laws.
Cost and Billing
There is absolutely no cost to parents or caregivers for services covered under this program. You will never have to worry about co-pays or hidden fees. Furthermore, receiving care at school will not reduce, limit, or affect any medical care your family receives outside of school.
Quick Links & Resources
Downloadable Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI)?
It is a program funded by the state of California to improve mental and emotional health support for kids and teens. The goal is simple: make sure young people have the tools, care, and support they need to feel good mentally, emotionally, and socially.
Who can receive these services?
This initiative is for all children and youth across California. It specifically focuses on bringing more mental health care directly into schools, making it easier for students—including those on Medi-Cal or those who traditionally face barriers to care—to get help.
What kind of support does CYBHI provide?
We offer a wide variety of services, including:
- Mental health counseling and therapy
- Early check-ins and screenings to catch emotional struggles early
- Peer support programs and community resources
- Crisis response help when immediate support is needed
- Training for teachers and school staff so they can better support your child every day
How can my child start using these services?
Support is available right here at your child’s school, through local community health organizations, or via local behavioral health providers. Simply reach out to our school front office to ask about available programs, or check your county’s behavioral health website.
What if my child already sees an outside therapist or counselor?
CYBHI services are designed to blend perfectly with the care your child is already receiving. We can work together with your outside provider to make sure your child has a strong, coordinated support system.
Is there really no cost for these services?
Yes! Many of the services offered through CYBHI are completely free, especially for students covered by Medi-Cal. You can always check with our school team or your specific service provider to confirm details.
How does CYBHI help parents and families?
We know that supporting a child means supporting the whole family. CYBHI offers:
- Easy-to-understand guides on youth mental health
- Parent workshops and learning sessions
- Family support groups to connect you with other parents
How is my child’s privacy protected?
Your privacy is our priority. Anything shared during these services is strictly confidential and protected by strong federal and state privacy laws, including FERPA and HIPAA.
I don’t know my child’s insurance information. How do I find it?
You can find your child’s insurance provider ID directly on their Medi-Cal or IEHP insurance card. If you can’t find the physical card, you can log into your account on the Medi-Cal or IEHP websites. You can also call them directly for quick assistance:
- Medi-Cal: (800) 541-5555
- IEHP Member Services: (800) 440-4347
What if my child doesn't have health insurance?
If your child is currently uninsured, you may qualify for free or low-cost health coverage through Medi-Cal or Covered California. You can easily apply online at www.coveredca.com or visit your local county social services office for hands-on help.
How is this initiative changing our school for the better?
Schools participating in CYBHI receive extra funding to bring more mental health professionals onto campus, build dedicated student wellness centers, and improve emergency crisis responses. Ultimately, it makes getting help normal, easy, and completely free of stigma.
Where can I learn more?
To dive deeper, you can visit the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) website, or feel free to contact our school district office for local program details.