Unprecedented Training Opportunity with South Florida Behavioral Health Network

The South Florida Behavioral Health Network (SFBHN) oversees funding designated by the State of Florida to help individuals in need of behavioral health care, including teens troubled by alcohol or substance abuse, individuals suffering from mental health disorders, and families in need of support and behavioral health services. 

In June of 2015, over 270 therapists, case managers, licensed professionals and families across Miami-Dade County had the opportunity to participate in 15 different YES Institute community dialogues and continuing education courses. We offered our entire curriculum bilingually, including two Gender Continuum and two Communication Solutions™ courses.


A new expansion grant is extending SFBHN services beyond birth–18 year-olds, up to 21 year-olds and their families. Mental health professionals are noticing an increase in gender and orientation topics as presenting concerns for youth in the system of care, and are eagerly requesting and participating in continuing education sessions with YES Institute: 

Joseph Zolobczuk speaking at SFBHN Gender & Orientation Dialogue.

"Our agency refers a lot of our clients to YES Institute. Our adolescents and their families are very happy with your educational services which readies parents to address underlying concerns with their children." 

– Psychologist, Banyan Health 

"Such a great training. I learned about breaking down what someone said, to really get at what they are saying. I learned the value of staying open minded, knowing the community resources, and how to link clients to them. It's OK to talk about gender and orientation." 

– Psychology student 

"I learned the difference between gender, orientation, and behavior. Many people confuse these all together."  

– Social work student 

Lucy Hernandez, LCSW, speaking with participants at SFBHN.

Four agencies are playing a key role in the new services expansion grant: Citrus Health, Federation of Families Miami-Dade, Institute for Child & Family Health, and Jackson Community Mental Health. 

We look forward to deepening our consultation and education efforts with all providers so no child or family in Miami has to feel alone, stigmatized, or isolated. 


If you are a provider within the SFBHN network, contact YES Institute today to learn how you can register for upcoming dialogues and courses at 305-663-7195 (weekdays 9am-5pm). 

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Written by Joseph Zolobczuk and Umut Dursun.