Growing Together: CASL’s Behavioral Health Program

CASL’s Behavioral Health Program reflects our spirit of entrepreneurship, resilience, and transformation. What began with a single clinician in 2021 has grown into a team of 15 clinicians by 2025, demonstrating CASL’s ability to respond to community needs with care, innovation, and purpose. 

Under the leadership of Director of Clinical Services Winnie Lam, the program was honored with the Mental Health Equity Award from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), recognizing its commitment to equitable, culturally responsive mental health care. 

The behavioral health team centers its work on awareness, prevention, and intervention, supporting individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges. As needs have evolved, the team has expanded services to include family advocacy, caregiver support, domestic violence support, and brain health services. This ensures a holistic, community-centered approach to care. 

Youth mental health has become an important focus of the program. Youth Mental Health Clinician Megan Rahn recently led a parent training at Robert Healy Elementary School on social media and internet use among teens and facilitated a Confidence 101 workshop at Project Vision. These workshops strengthen prevention efforts, build confidence, and support caregivers in navigating today’s challenges. 

CASL welcomes new community partnerships for trainings and workshops. To collaborate, contact BehavioralHealth@CASL.org.

Beyond direct services, the behavioral health team works closely with CASL’s Impact and Advocacy team, advocating for policies and funding that strengthen community-based behavioral health systems and empower individuals to advocate for themselves. 

Today, the program’s impact is driven by the collective dedication of clinicians and interns whose compassion, adaptability, and advocacy continue to expand access to mental health care. Together, they are helping individuals and families feel safe seeking support and thrive.