Future Behavioral Health Symposium Student and Professionals Panel featuring facilitators and speakers including a clinic supervisor, an education consultant and a student intern.
The Future Behavioral Health Professionals Symposium was successfully hosted through a collaborative partnership between the San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Department and the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS). This event reflects a strong and ongoing partnership between the two organizations, which has continued to grow over the past several years, with the shared goal of inspiring and preparing the next generation of behavioral health professionals.
The symposium welcomed 70 high school students currently enrolled in behavioral health or human services career pathways from Cajon High School, Chaffey High School and Montclair High School. Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to engage with experienced professionals, learn about career pathways in behavioral health, and gain a deeper understanding of the important work being done within the field.
The full-day event was thoughtfully coordinated by Jalisa Randle, project manager with Workforce SBCSS, and Cynthia Velasco, volunteer services coordinator with Public Relations and Outreach Services at Behavioral Health. Their collaboration ensured a meaningful and well-structured experience for participating students.
The day began with insightful opening remarks from Josh Dugas, acting director of Behavioral Health, whose message underscored the growing need for compassionate and skilled professionals in behavioral health and set an inspiring tone for the day’s learning.
Students rotated through a series of sessions that explored behavioral health career pathways, suicide prevention, mindfulness and self-care practices, bullying and social media awareness, and substance use education. The day concluded with a reflective discussion emphasizing an important principle for those entering helping professions: to effectively care for others, individuals must also prioritize their own well-being.
These sessions were led by subject matter experts, including Vanessa Stone, mental health clinic supervisor; Michelle Garcia, mental health clinic supervisor; Alejandro Rodriguez, program specialist II with the Office of Suicide Prevention; Scott Higa, mental health education consultant with the Community Education Program; Jason Diaz, BSW intern; Maya Crim, wellness coordinator; Alexander Cordova, behavioral health education consultant with Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Services; and Crystal Armstrong, health education specialist II with the San Bernardino County Public Health Department.
Students were highly engaged throughout the symposium and demonstrated strong interest in the field. They asked thoughtful and insightful questions, challenging the professionals to share deeper perspectives about their experiences and career journeys. Their participation reflected both curiosity and enthusiasm for the behavioral health profession.
Overall, the Future Behavioral Health Professionals Symposium provided students with valuable exposure to the field, meaningful connections with professionals, and encouragement as they continue exploring careers dedicated to supporting others’ well-being.
For more information about volunteer opportunities at DBH email DBH-Volunteer@dbh.sbcounty.gov.
Additional County Update News – March 19, 2026