Empowering youth all summer long
Our Summer Behavioral Health Program provides Medicaid-eligible children and adolescents ages 5–18 with a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. Through hands-on activities, therapeutic skill-building, and exciting community field trips across Columbus, Ohio, we help youth build confidence, emotional regulation, and positive relationships throughout June, July, and August.
Program core pillars
We combine behavioral health support with interactive experiences tailored to individualized treatment goals. Our structured daily curriculum balances therapeutic growth, creative expression, and active community connection.
Skill development
Youth strengthen essential life abilities including emotional regulation, healthy coping mechanisms, constructive communication, problem-solving, and positive decision-making.
Recreation and arts
Weekly schedules feature creative arts and crafts, gardening, physical recreation, educational projects, and team-building games that foster teamwork, independence, and self-confidence.
Community outings
Participants practice coping and social skills in real-world settings through guided trips to COSI, local parks, community recreation centers, and local educational attractions.
Key program details and schedule
Our half-day summer program runs Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, from June through August. It is designed for youth ages 5–18 who are eligible for Ohio Medicaid and meet behavioral health service criteria at Brighter Pathways of Ohio program locations.
Therapeutic approach
Participants engage in both individual and group therapeutic activities focused on personalized treatment goals. By integrating behavioral health strategies into fun, active group dynamics, children learn to navigate interpersonal relationships, manage stress, and thrive emotionally throughout the summer break.
How to enroll
Families interested in participating should contact Brighter Pathways of Ohio to initiate the intake process. Our team assists parents and guardians through Ohio Medicaid eligibility verification, required intake documentation, behavioral health assessments, and service determination. Because spots depend on eligibility and capacity, early registration is highly encouraged.
