Mentoring & Support

Inspiring the Next Generation of Behavioral Health Professionals

Our NextGen Mentoring and NextUp High School Pipeline programs are designed to build early awareness, expand access, and support long-term career success for students across Florida. By reducing barriers to entry, creating supportive career pathways, and fostering meaningful connections between generations, these programs are helping grow a more sustainable and resilient behavioral health workforce for our state.

PROGRAM

NextGen Mentoring

Launched in 2025, the NextGen Mentoring Program supports rising undergraduate seniors in behavioral health-related majors who plan to pursue a clinical graduate degree at a Florida university. Students from rural or underserved counties are given priority consideration.

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Program Highlights

Mentor Matching

Students are paired with licensed behavioral health professionals in their area and field of interest. Mentors guide career exploration, graduate school applications, and professional goal setting through monthly one-on-one meetings.

Virtual Seminars

Monthly sessions explore key topics including licensure, professional boundaries, self-care, and academic readiness.

Financial Support

Each mentee will receive a $5,000 stipend to help cover personal and educational costs. Mentors receive either a $1,000 honorarium or ten volunteer hours to support applications to the Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) program in recognition of their time and commitment.

PROGRAM

NextUp High School Pipeline

Launching in the 2026–2027 academic year, the NextUp Program introduces high school juniors and seniors to careers in behavioral health through virtual mentoring and monthly educational sessions. As with NextGen, priority is given to students from rural counties.

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Program Highlights

Career Awareness

Students learn about behavioral health professions, college preparation, and strategies for success — both academically and personally.

Career Awareness

Alumni from the NextGen program will serve as mentors and co-facilitators, supporting students through one-on-one breakout sessions.

Stipends

High school mentees receive a $1,000 stipend, and peer mentors receive $2,500 to help offset costs such as SAT/ACT fees, college visits, and application expenses.