In 2022, BGCP built out in-house mental health services to ensure our students could access free, quality therapy from clinicians whom they trust. Since then, Director of Mental Health Daniela Velasquez, LMFT, and her team of twelve clinicians have developed a robust mental health program to serve BGCP students.

Through individual therapy, group therapy and peer support groups, our clinicians served 585 students this year.

Students Served By BGCP Mental Health Services

At BGCP, mental health services fall into three categories:

    • Staff Training

    • Safety training & development

    • Staff support

    • Peer-to-peer support groups

    • Middle school wellness program

    • Mental Health Workshop

    • Mileu based interactions

    • Individual psychotherapy

    • Group psychotherapy

    • Mandated reporting

    • Risk assessment

Mental Health In Action

At the Redwood City Clubhouse, where mental health support has become increasingly normalized, tenn members organically began two peer support groups. This includes the Queer Youth Support Group, which was created as welcoming space for members who did not feel like they fit in anywhere. The group has formed such a close and meaningful connections that they continue to meet every week. For many of our high school students, BGCP is a safe place where they can form a sense of community. This year, 92% of our high schoolers report feeling a sense of belonging.