Mental Health & Wellness Education

workshops • mental health first aid/qpr • find a support group • view past workshop recordings

Strategies for Families & Providers to Challenge Insurance Denials

Families and providers often face confusing and frustrating obstacles when insurance plans delay, deny, or refuse to pay for mental health care.

Join us for a workshop where staff from DMHC will guide families and providers on how to file complaints effectively, challenge denials, and secure reimbursement for mental health care.

DATE: Wednesday, February 4 from 6:30-7:30pm
WHERE: Virtual on ZOOM [link shared after registration]
REGISTRATION: REQUIRED >>
COST: FREE
CONTACT: navigator@youthwell.org

Participants will learn:

Key mental health coverage rights
Effective strategies for responding to insurance denials
How and when to file complaints with DMHC
How families can request reimbursement and escalate appeals
How providers can strengthen claims, submit for payment, and push back when coverage is denied

Participants will leave with tools, scripts, and pathways to navigate barriers and hold insurance plans accountable.

student workshops

Free • REGISTRATION REQUIRED >>

Learn About Volunteer & Internship Opportunities in Santa Barbara County

March 11, 2026 | 5:45–7:15 PM | Virtual

Zoom link provided after registration
Questions: yab@youthwell.org | 805.770.1239
Open to youth ages 10–21 and parents

Join YouthWell for a free virtual workshop designed to help students explore meaningful volunteer, internship, and leadership opportunities across Santa Barbara County.

Hear directly from a panel of 20+ local nonprofit organizations about how to get involved, build skills, and make a real impact in your community. Whether you are looking to complete community service hours or want to explore future career interests, this session will help you find opportunities that align with what matters most to you.

Students will learn about opportunities across a range of focus areas, including: Animals • Arts and culture • Education • Environment and science • Homelessness services • Camps and youth programs • Supporting older adults

Volunteering is more than checking a box. It helps young people manage stress, feel connected, build confidence, and discover new passions.

Free • REGISTRATION REQUIRED >>

Mentor Sessions hosted by students

Session Dates [5:45–7:15 PM • VIRTUAL]

Feb 10, 2026 • Social Connection & Mental Wellness
March 10, 2026 • Peer Support
April 28, 2026 • Politics & Mental Health

YouthWell Mentor Sessions are interactive, youth-centered conversations focused on real-life challenges that impact mental health and wellbeing. Hosted by YouthWell Youth Advocacy Board.

Each session explores a timely topic, such as academic stress, peer support, social connection, or navigating today’s political climate, through a mix of expert insight and lived experience. Youth hear from mental health professionals, community leaders, and near-peer mentors, including college students and former Youth Advocacy Board members, who share practical tools, personal stories, and strategies for coping, connection, and self-care.

Mentor Sessions are designed to help young people feel less alone, build confidence in supporting themselves and others, and walk away with skills they can actually use.

Zoom link provided after registration
Questions: yab@youthwell.org | 805.770.1239
Open to youth ages 10–25 and parents

wellness workshops

• PARENT EDUCATION NIGHTS SERIES •
FREE 1.25-hour virtual education nights designed to help parents/caregivers navigate the everyday challenges of raising children from K-12th. Each session explores a topic, offers practical tools and strategies, and creates space to learn from other parents.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED >
SUGGESTED OPTIONAL FEE: $5 per person pay online >
LOCATION: ZOOM [link shared after registration]
QUESTIONS: groups@youthwell.org OR 805.770.1239
WORKSHOP RESOURCES DOC >
SPANISH INTERPRETATION AVAILABLE
7PM-8:15PM

JAN 27, 7pm • Balancing Positivity & Boundaries, Part 1 - Explore how to foster a loving, respectful family culture with strong yet flexible boundaries. Discover practical ways to build connection, encourage cooperation, and create emotional safety.

FEB 10, 7pm • Parenting in Community: Finding Your Village - We have all heard the phrase “it takes a village,” but how do we create that for ourselves? Learn to create meaningful parent networks, strengthen your support system, navigate the emotional and logistical challenges of raising kids, and lean into connection as a powerful parenting tool.

MAR 10, 7pm • Supporting Mental Health & Twice-Exceptional Youth - Many gifted kids also face learning or emotional challenges. Learn how to support twice-exceptional (2e) youth, those with high ability and additional needs while navigating anxiety, ADHD, and advocacy.

APR 28, 7pm • Balancing Positivity & Boundaries, Part 2 - Learn how to support emotional regulation, independence, and resilience in your kids while maintaining warmth and structure—just in time for summer planning.

YW Parent Education Nights Updated English

stronger together for neurodiverse Youth

• PARENT & PROVIDER SERIES •
FREE virtual workshops for PARENTS, PROVIDERS, and EDUCATORS focused on sharing neurodiversity-affirming tools, resources, and practices that can be utilized at home and in classrooms. We hope to increase the literacy, compassion, and support available to anyone engaging with neurodiverse youth (ages 5-25).

REGISTRATION REQUIRED >
SUGGESTED OPTIONAL FEE: $5/person pay online >
LOCATION: ZOOM [link shared after registration]
QUESTIONS: groups@youthwell.org OR 805.770.1239
WORKSHOP RESOURCES FOLDER >
SPANISH INTERPRETATION AVAILABLE
TIME ??

FEB 22 • Neurodiversity 101: A Parent’s Guide to Affirming Support • 5–6 pm

Join Dr. Anna Krasno, a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience in autism assessment and neurodiversity-affirming care, and Clinical Director of the Koegel Autism Center at UC Santa Barbara.

Parenting a neurodivergent child can raise questions about language, labels, strengths, and challenges. This talk offers an introduction to neurodiversity, explaining how it contrasts with the medical model and why this shift matters. We’ll explore different types of neurodivergence and discuss how to speak about differences in ways that are honest, affirming, and developmentally supportive, without minimizing real struggles. Parents will leave with tools to foster confidence, understanding, and connection.

host a training or workshop

YouthWell can customize a workshop or training for your audience whether it is youth, parents and caregivers, community members, or providers.

Click to INQUIRE ABOUT SCHEDULING A WORKSHOP/TRAINING
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Contact MHTraining@YouthWell.org if you have questions.
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Visit BeTheDifferenceSB.org or youthwell.org/mental-health-first-aid to schedule a Youth Mental Health First Aid training.

youth mental health first aid

LEARN MORE ABOUT MHFA & QPR >>

Join the movement in Santa Barbara County to strengthen our community because we can all be more aware and informed. Hosted by FSA, and YouthWell.

Just as CPR helps you assist an individual having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis.

Youth Mental Health First Aid [Y-MHFA]is a 6.5 hour comprehensive training designed to equip educators, family members, and caregivers (18 years or older) with the skills and knowledge to identify, understand, and respond to the signs or risk factors of youth mental illness and substance use disorders.
Teen Mental Health First Aid [tMHFA] teaches high school students about common mental health challenges and what they can do to support their own mental health and help a friend who is struggling. It’s equipping young people with the knowledge and skills they need to foster their own wellness and to support each other.

QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer — the 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. QPR is a suicide prevention training for participants to be able to recognize the warning signs of suicide and question, persuade, and refer people at risk for suicide for help. QPR can be learned in as little as one hour and you will receive a certificate that is active for 2 years.

Let us know if you would like to coordinate a private class for 20 people to train in your organization, church, or group. The course is available in English and Spanish. If you are interested in finding out about additional classes for... QPR, Mental Health First Aid, Teen Mental Health First Aid or Youth Mental Health First Aid - contact mhtraining@youthwell.org

Workshop Recordings

View all workshop RECORDINGS on our YouTube channel

View handouts and slides of past workshops

Free virtual wellness workshops provide a platform for students (10-25), parents, and those working with youth to learn tools and tips for managing their mental wellness and practicing self-care in order to build resilience so they are better equipped to cope with stress and challenging situations. Spanish interpretation provided.

WORKSHOP: Meaningful volunteer opportunities in Santa Barbara County

VIEW LIST OF CURRENT VOLUNTEER OPPS IN SB COUNTY >

Non-Profit Panel of 20+ SB County organizations shares about how students can create meaningful ways to volunteer. Completing community service hours is more than checking a box off the to-do list... it’s learning about the joy of volunteering, learning new skills, and an opportunity to grow and discover new passions. Find which areas (animals, arts & culture, homelessness, environment & science, education, camps, elderly) are meaningful to you. Volunteering helps people manage stress, feel connected, and increase self-confidence.

Speakers 2025 [VIEW RECORDING 2025 > VIEW 2025 SLIDES > YouthWell, STESA, SB Museum Natural History & Sea Center, SB County Education Office, SB Botanic Gardens, Safety Town, SB Bucket Brigade, Peer Buddies, Planned Parenthood, Grace Fisher Foundation, Future Leaders of America, CAUSE, AHA!, Youth Making Change, SB Museum of Art -- Panel of SB County organizations who provide internship & leadership opportunities shared about their program and how students can get involved. Students gained tips & tools for applying to internships. Internship and leadership programs with non-profits and local companies are a great way to explore your interests, increase self-confidence, and learn valuable life skills. Youth who intern strengthen their communication, time-management, and organizational skills, all while learning and building meaningful relationships with mentors in the community. You can often earn community service hours and expand your network for future job opportunities!

Speakers 2024 [VIEW RECORDING 2024 > VIEW 2024 SLIDES > : Assistance League of SB, AHA!, Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, Cycling Without Age, Dunes Center, Girls Inc Carp, Housing Authority-City SB, Old Spanish Days Fiesta, PATH, Peer Buddies, SB Museum of Art, SB Public Library, STESA, SB Zoo, YouthWell

Speakers 2023 [VIEW RECORDING 2023 > or LISTEN SPANISH AUDIO >] VIEW 2023 SLIDES > : Assistance League of SB, AHA!, Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, Central Coast Rescue Mission, City of SB Parks & Recreation, Community Environmental Council, Cottage Health, Friendship Center, Inclusive Arts Clubhouse, Inclusive Arts Clubhouse - Grace Fisher Foundation, Keiki Paddle, Mental Wellness Center, Resource Family Assistance Support Team, SB Bucket Brigade, SB Humane, SB Museum of Art, SB Museum of Natural History & Sea Center, SB Public Library, YouthWell

Speakers 2021 [VIEW RECORDING 2021 >]: Alpha Resource Center, Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, BUNS (Bunnies Urgently Needing Shelter), Fairview Gardens, CommUnify, Community Environmental Council, Cottage Rehabilitation Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, Cycling Without Age, Direct Relief, Explore Ecology, Food Bank, Friendship Center, Fund For SB, MWC, Sansum Diabetes/Veggie IQ, Santa Maria Public Library, SYV Humane Society/DAWG, SB Museum of Natural History & Sea Center, Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, Wilderness Youth Project

Navigate transitions with kids

VIEW RECORDING SEPT 2024 >
Whether it's just the start of the school year or your child is moving from one school to a new one, transitions can be really challenging for everyone.

Learn how to help your student ease in to the school year with grace and enthusiasm and support them when things get overwhelming. Help them identify their allies and ask for what they need before things fall apart, and get some tips on taking care of yourself during this time.

Learn to set limits & hold boundaries with love

Learn to build a healthy relationship with technology

Understanding Youth Substance Use

VIEW RECORDING 2022 >
VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Learn to... 1. recognize the differences between recreational use and addiction 2. be an ally to your peers in recovery 3. the negative effects of binge drinking, vaping, and JUULing 4. how self-medicating can mask the symptoms of mental illness 5. about local support resources. UCSB students will share personal stories of recovery and sobriety. 2022 Speakers: John Doyel, George Stoddard, Jimmy Chahal, Grace Lemersal, Justin Emmanuel Suarez, Thomas Flanagan 2021 Speakers: Dr Jason Prystowsky, ER Doctor, Sharleen O’Brien, UCSB, Jackie Kurta, UCSB, Lacey Peters, SB City College, Joselyn Sanchez, CADA, Ric Torchon, Sam Lytle

Develop your communication style to increase connection

VIEW RECORDING 2022 >

Learn to strengthen relationships through active listening and constructive responding. Build empathic listening skills to better interact with family, friends, youth, and co-workers. Learn how to support a friend you are concerned about.

Listening is a powerful communication tool that allows us to build trust, deepen connections, and reduce conflict in both personal and professional relationships. Speaker: Michael Takahara

Cultivate resilience & find flow in sports & in life

VIEW RECORDING 2022 >

Student athletes, learn new tools and strategies that help decrease anxiety, negative thoughts, fatigue, and burnout. Learn mindfulness strategies that improve resiliency, competitive performance, and the ability to perform optimally under extreme stress. Learn to support teammates. Coaches will learn skills for bringing mindfulness, awareness, clarity, and compassion into their work with youth. Speaker: Amy Saltzman, M.D., Jacob Lombard, coach, Jimmy Chahal, student.

Navigate your mental health

VIEW RECORDING 2022 >
VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Learn to understand the spectrum of mental health. Recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental health challenge. Understand the role of medication in some treatment plans, why self-care matters, and why we need to prioritize early intervention. Learn coping strategies for managing our mental health. Learn to support a friend or your child and build listening skills. Learn to advocate for yourself and ask for help. How to report if you are concerned about a friend. Tips for finding a therapist & how to make telehealth work for you. Speakers: Eric Nelson, Jessica Ambroz, Lacey Peters, Rio Seymour

Wellness Tips • Reboot, Refresh, Restore

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Learn simple hacks for yourself and your family to infuse balance into your day, improve your mood, fight fatigue, and relieve stress. This workshop is an opportunity for anyone regardless of your age to learn new tools and set your own intentions for what you want in 2021 so that you feel empowered to manage your mental and physical wellness. PRINT SLIDES > PRINT: Meal Planning, Grocery Lists, Eating Out 2021 PRINT: Wellness Workshop Self-Care Tips & Worksheets 2021 Speakers: Cara Ferrick, CorePower co-owner, Jenni Tasca, MSRD, Registered Dietitian, Shadean Runyen, Functional Health and Wellness Coach

Power of Movement & Breathing

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Learn about the power of movement & breathing and how it improves your mood and relieves stress. Cara will talk about how exercise and movements affect both our physical and mental health. She will also share about the science of breath and why it matters that we take time to breathe. Workshop will also include... Grounding, Resiliency, and Gratitude • Mindfulness Tools & Breathing • Movement and the many benefits • Self-care and your intuition and inner knowing • Tools to help you sleep • Essential oils • Meditation and the many benefits Speaker: Cara Ferrick, co-owner CorePower Yoga

Food affects our mood

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Understand how the foods you eat affect your mental health, mood, and how you feel. This will be an interactive discussion will you learn how to continue to enjoy eating all the foods you love while learning how to balance so you can avoid those afternoon energy crashes. Learn how to substitute healthier alternatives when you are baking and still have those cookies taste great! Great tips for athletes as well. VIEW ZOOM VIDEO PRESENTATION & SLIDES HANDOUT - Overview of how food affects our moods Speaker: Jenni Tasca

Strategies to manage anxiety & build relationships

Body positive

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Our body image can impact our mental health. Learn to cultivate self-love and acceptance. Learn how body neutrality can transform our self-image, improve self-esteem, and tools on how to eliminate negative messages. Local leader, Jordan Killebrew and college student, Caroline Anderson will share their experiences of overcoming an eating disorder. Speakers: Jenny Schatzle, author, Breaking the Cycle: Free Yourself from the Story that's Holding You Back! Heather Lengyel, dietician nutritionist

Building healthy relationships

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Learn tips for building healthy relationships and how to set boundaries. Learn to recognize when a friendship may be toxic or unhealthy. Learn to support a friend or your child who has been sexually assaulted. Learn what consent means, how to report sexual assault and resources in Santa Barbara County. Speakers from DVS, UCSB, STESA, Pacific Pride, North County Rape Crisis Center, Planned Parenthood

Compassionate & mindful listening

VIEW RECORDING 2021 >

Connection that makes a difference - Build empathic listening skills to better interact with youth, family, friends, and co-workers. Improve communication skills in personal and professional lives. Learn how to... -build skills of deep, empathic listening -speak from your heart -help others by doing less -ask the right questions -reflect on your own judgment & biases. Speaker: Dave Mochel

Keep Our Kids Safe: Prevent Human Trafficking in SB County

Other Workshops

Angst movie screening
Documentary designed to raise awareness around anxiety. Film includes interviews with kids, teens, educators, experts, parents, and a special interview with Michael Phelps. The goal is to help people identify and understand the symptoms of anxiety. PRINT: DISCUSSION GUIDE, ANXIETY FACTS & TIPS & SLIDES FOR ANGST WORKSHOP > Speakers: Dr. Jerry Bubrick is a senior clinical psychologist in the Anxiety Disorders Center and director of the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Service at the Child Mind Institute in New York. Dr. Margot Roseman, Pediatrician, Jessica Ambroz, School Social Worker, Dawson Kelly, student.

You(th) can be advocates for change
Find your voice. Learn from a panel of local student leaders how to become advocates forchange with an emphasis on social justice. Learn to frame the conversation so others will listen. Build a space for empathy and understandingwhere we learn from each other to createchange in our community.
Speakers: Maya Samarasena/DPHS, Shakir Ahmad/SMHS, Essence Wynter/UCSB, Adalis Rojas/UCSB, Nathaniel Ilo/UCSB, Ashley Steidl/Cal Poly. PRINT: Resources & Reads for understanding Social Justice & Advocacy

Managing Stress & Finding Balance - Increasing resilience in our youth through mindfulness and self-care.
How do we offer guidance & support without rescuing our children from the discomfort that naturally comes with healthy challenges and growth? We will [1] introduce & practice simple strategies for supporting our kids in becoming capable & resilient adults, [2] explore simple practices for parents to use in being more present & understanding, [3] discuss the line that separates normal upset & disappointment from depression & anxiety that require professional intervention.

Navigate the digital and gaming age with youth
Learn strategies on how to support youth responsibly with their devices. Understand the impact of screens on brain development. Learn to identify signs of cell phone and gaming addiction, and set healthy limits around devices.

College Student Panel
Local Santa Barbara students who attend colleges all over the country answer questions about their personal experiences at their schools. If you are trying to decide which school is a fit for you, it might be helpful to be able to ask questions about things you are curious about.