Understanding CYBHI

What is CYBHI?
The Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) is a statewide effort in California to improve mental health and emotional well-being for all children and youth, from birth through age 25.

What Does It Mean for Schools and Families?
CYBHI brings more mental health resources and support directly into schools so students can get help when they need it—right on campus, quickly, and without cost to families.

Key Programs Families Might See at School:

On-Campus Mental Health Support – Trained counselors, therapists, or wellness staff available during the school day. Students can talk to someone about stress, anxiety, peer issues, or other concerns in a safe and supportive environment.

Virtual Mental Health Services – Free access to online therapy, counseling, and wellness tools, available even outside of school hours. Convenient for busy families or students who prefer remote support.

Peer Support Programs – Trained student leaders provide support and a listening ear for their peers. Builds community and reduces the stigma around mental health.

Life Skills and Wellness Education – School programs that teach students how to manage emotions, handle stress, build healthy relationships, and bounce back from challenges.

Family and Community Support – Resources, webinars, and events to help families support their children’s mental well-being at home. Materials are available in multiple languages and are culturally sensitive.

Cost to Families: $0
There is no charge to families for these services. CYBHI programs are funded by the state of California. Some services may be billed to Medi-Cal or insurance if available, but families will not receive a bill and no student is turned away for not having insurance.

How the Fee Schedule Works

Snowline Mental health providers participating in CYBHI may use a fee schedule to bill insurance plans (such as Medi-Cal or private insurance) for covered services. This is done behind the scenes and does not involve parents directly. Families do not need to take any action, and there are no copays or deductibles required from them. If a family chooses not to use insurance or does not have coverage, services are still provided free of charge through CYBHI funding.

SJUSD will ask for your student's health insurance information during new enrollments and at the beginning of the year as part of the student handbook process so that we can submit reimbursement requests for the services we provide. We will keep this information secure and confidential, as required by state and federal laws. 

Why It Matters
CYBHI helps schools support students' emotional well-being just like they support academics and physical health. It's about giving every child the opportunity to thrive—socially, emotionally, and academically.