Youth Mental Health Academy

# Youth Mental Health Academy The Child Mind Institute's Youth Mental Health Academy (YMHA) develops the next generation of mental health professionals by giving high school students from communities underrepresented in the field a paid, structured introduction to psychology, clinical care, and research careers. The program runs roughly 14 months, anchored by an in-person summer academy in Los Angeles County - the 2026 session ran June 22 - July 23, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ## What You'll Do - Complete a five-week summer academy of project-based learning on mental health topics, earning a stipend of up to $1,750 - Continue through the school year (August-March) with virtual workshops and mentorship - Explore careers spanning clinical practice, research, and media/communications in mental health - Build a peer cohort and professional mentors in the mental health field ## Who Should Apply Rising juniors and seniors enrolled in a public or private high school in Los Angeles County with an overall GPA of 2.5 or higher, proof of health insurance coverage, and a strong interest in mental health. The program prioritizes students from structurally marginalized communities, including youth of color and LGBTQIA+ youth. For the 2026 cohort, the priority deadline was January 15 and the final deadline February 28, 2026; the next cycle typically reopens in late fall. ## Outcomes YMHA scholars finish with paid project experience, a mental health professional network, and preparation for second-summer internship placements - a rare structured pathway into psychology and behavioral health careers before college.