Behavioral Health interns helping youth find steady ground
At CYC, mental health is part of every interaction we have with young people. It’s in how we listen, how we care, and how we remind them they’re not alone.
This year, 19 Behavioral Health interns joined CYC, each bringing care, curiosity, and a deep commitment to meeting youth where they are. They’re working with students across the city, from Garfield Elementary to Aptos, Francisco, Marina middle schools and Burton, Lincoln, Mission, and Washington high schools. They also do their work at Lawton Alternative, San Francisco Community School, and youth in a probation program. Every day, they see how steady support can change how a young person feels about themselves, their school, and what’s possible in their future.
Why this work matters
Mental health needs in AANHPI communities are often overlooked. The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) published report “Beyond the Surface” shows that nearly half of respondents experience symptoms of moderate depression, and three in ten young people have considered or attempted suicide. These numbers reflect the weight many young people carry—academic pressure, family responsibilities, and social media.
Amid that reality, places that feel safe and grounding matter more than ever.
At the TAAF AAPI Mental Health Summit on November 6, 2026, Program Director Henry Ha shared how CYC became that steady place for him after immigrating to San Francisco as a teen. Later it was Dragon Boat that gave him connection and direction during a difficult time. That same sense of stability lives across CYC, whether on the water, in an afterschool classroom, or in a counseling session where a young person finally feels seen and heard.
Support takes many forms
Our Behavioral Health team often becomes a touchpoint for youth who need room to breathe. Our staff and interns give youth time to sort out stress, notice their emotions, and build habits that help them navigate challenges. Our interns see the impact of that work every week.
June Guan, a second-year MFT student at the University of San Francisco, shared how much young people carry quietly. “A lot of students are working through more than people realize,” she said. “They’re incredibly resilient.” She also noted how important sincerity is when supporting teens. “They can sniff out your BS instantly. You have to be genuine. They know if you don’t really care.”
For Mark Guo, a first-year MFT student at Golden Gate University, the work centers on patience. “You can’t rush trust,” he said. “You build it moment by moment.”
Moments that stay with you
Every intern can recall a moment that captures why this work matters.
Anu recalled meeting a student who arrived withdrawn and overwhelmed. “He barely spoke,” Anu said. “There was a lot happening at home, and he didn’t have anyone he felt safe talking to.” They met regularly, and over time, the student began to settle. “One day he walked in smiling. The color came back into his face. Seeing that change reminded me why this work matters.”
That kind of shift doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen alone. It grows when someone shows up regularly and takes the time to understand what a young person is carrying.
June sees that growth too. “The teenagers fill me with hope,” she said. “They’re planning for their futures. They’re excited. They want to build something meaningful.”
Mark, who works with students at Francisco High School, shared a similar reflection. “A lot of kids are carrying heavy things,” he said, “and they still show up trying. That takes strength.”
Each reflection offers a glimpse into the resilience of the young people they support, and the compassion they bring as emerging clinicians.
Looking ahead
CYC’s Behavioral Health team continues to practice a model rooted in cultural awareness, patience, and genuine relationships. Our interns learn what it means to meet youth where they are, with care that reflects their experiences and identities.
Anu Kirk, who works with students at Burton High School, said what surprised him most at CYC was the culture. “People here know their stuff,” he said, “and they lead with honesty and warmth.” He shared how staff guide interns through serious moments while also helping them stay grounded.
This balance of skill and compassion is what makes CYC’s approach unique. Our interns carry these lessons forward as they become the next generation of mental health professionals who lead with both knowledge and heart.
Join us in supporting youth mental health
This season, our Heart of the Holidays campaign helps keep mental health support strong for young people across San Francisco. Your gift helps ensure they have the care and connection they need to feel supported and move forward.
Donate today to help CYC continue showing up for youth when it matters most.