Transforming
Youth Behavioral Health
Access to high-quality mental health support is a fundamental right of all children and families—and the Ballmer Institute is building the workforce to make it possible through a pioneering undergraduate training program.
What We Do at the Ballmer Institute
Research drives us. We apply rigorous science, field expertise, and real-world insight to address the most pressing challenges in youth mental health.
Expanding the
Youth Behavioral Health Workforce
The Ballmer Institute is leading the development of a new type of behavioral health provider—the behavioral health and wellness practitioner. These bachelor’s-level providers will expand access to care through prevention and early intervention services delivered in schools, healthcare settings, and communities agencies.
The Institute’s model is gaining national traction, with adoption by multiple universities and licensure pathways established in Oregon and Nevada.
A Trailblazing Undergrad Degree
Created in response to the youth mental health crisis, the child behavioral health program prepares career-ready graduates to deliver evidence-based and culturally-responsive early identification, prevention, and brief intervention services.
With more than 700 hours of supervised applied training in schools, primary care, and community settings, graduates are equipped to fill critical prevention-focused roles—supporting youth and families while working alongside licensed providers.
Meet the Team Driving Our Mission
Assistant Professor
Evelyn Cho
Focused on improving access to youth mental health care, Evelyn studies how clinicians implement evidence-based practices in routine care and develops tools to support effective treatment in community settings.
Professor
Sarah Kate Bearman
Bridging science and practice, Sarah Kate’s research ensures interventions are evidence‑based, practical, and accessible across the complex settings where youth receive care.
Senior Director
Tara Raines
A school psychologist by training, Tara champions a bachelor’s‑level workforce—and imagines a future where child behavioral health is woven into every classroom and community.
Assistant Clinical Professor
Katia Duncan
Driven by a commitment to youth and family well-being, Katia brings experience across clinical and community settings along with expertise in trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive supervision.
A New Home
For the Ballmer Institute
The Child Behavioral Health Building is a state-of-the-art facility designed for groundbreaking impact. As the future home of the Ballmer Institute and the Prevention Science Institute, it unites training, research, and service to expand access to care and advance innovation in behavioral health. Learn More About the Building ⏵
