Youth Behavioral Health Liaison (YBHL) Program
Children & Youth Services
Supporting Youth and Families Through Early Intervention and Care Coordination
The Youth Behavioral Health Liaison (YBHL) Program partners with schools, law enforcement, courts, and juvenile justice systems to connect youth and families with timely behavioral health supports. Through collaboration, outreach, and care coordination, the program helps address behavioral health needs early, reducing crisis escalation and strengthening long term stability for youth.
Referral Pathways Focused on Youth and Families
Referrals to the YBHL program come from trusted community partners who frequently interact with youth experiencing behavioral health concerns.
Referral sources include:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Juvenile courts
- Schools and school resource officers
- Detention and juvenile justice settings
YBHL services are specifically designed to support children, adolescents, and their families, taking a family‑centered approach to care.
Early Engagement and Family‑Centered Support
At the heart of the YBHL program is early outreach and relationship‑building. Behavioral Health Liaisons meet youth and families in schools, homes, detention settings, or the community to provide support during times of stress or crisis.
YBHL services may include:
- Behavioral health screening and assessment
- Connection to therapy, psychiatry, and community services
- Care coordination for youth and caregivers
- Support navigating school, court, and service systems
- Linkage to basic needs and family supports
Collaboration With First Responders and Schools
YBHL team members work closely with first responders, school personnel, and juvenile justice partners to strengthen responses to youth behavioral health concerns. Staff participate in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) efforts alongside community partners to promote:
- Trauma‑informed responses to youth in crisis
- Education on youth behavioral health and de‑escalation
- Coordinated support during and after crisis situations
When appropriate, YBHL staff co‑respond on calls involving youth and provide follow‑up services to support stabilization and continuity of care.
Promoting Resilience and Long‑Term Well‑Being
By connecting youth and families to appropriate services and reducing barriers to care, the YBHL program helps prevent future crises and promotes positive outcomes.
The program supports:
- Safer interactions with law enforcement and schools
- Stronger family engagement and support
- Continuity of behavioral health care
- Improved stability at home, school, and in the community
