Navigating adolescence can be challenging – the pressure to discover one’s identity, succeed academically, and meet social expectations can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially without a supportive adult or resources to help guide them.
“Teens face many challenges and don’t always feel understood by the adults in their lives,” said Heylee Chagzoetsang, Assistant Program Director at Teen Line. “Being able to train and support our teen volunteers helps me create a connection with them and become a supportive presence in their life – I’ve become someone they can turn to during a time of need.”
Heylee joined Didi Hirsch in 2018 where she began working as therapist in the Child & Family Division in Glendale. The transformative work she undertook with children and teens deeply resonated with her. In 2021, Heylee went on to work in the QA/QI department as Quality Improvement Clinician. Realizing her drive to support youth, she applied for the role of Assistant Program Director at Teen Line in 2023. In this role, she oversees Teen Line’s Career Development Program and works directly with teens from BIPOC communities – empowering a new generation of mental health ambassadors.
Teen Line, a peer-to-peer hotline for teens in need of mental health support, launched their Career Development Program at Applied Technology Center (ATC) High School in 2022. This program offers training for teens on their school campus to reduce geographic barriers and to learn to support others through Teen Line’s texting service.
The program was developed to diversify Teen Line’s volunteer base, expand service opportunities, and reduce the stigma around mental health within underserved communities. Additionally, the program aims to cultivate interest in mental health careers, addressing the shortage of clinicians of color in the field.
Students in the cohort are not only building mental health skills—they’re also reshaping the conversation around mental health.
“In my brief time running this program, I’ve seen the impact that it’s had on the students [at ATC High School] – from being able to demonstrate vulnerability and empathy, to seeking mental health support, and being able to talk about and assess for suicide,” said Heylee.
The program also brings additional hotline support – extending texting hours, starting at 4 p.m. – two hours earlier than the standard schedule to reach more help-seekers.
For Heylee, watching these young ambassadors grow into their roles is deeply motivating. The program’s success has already inspired plans to expand across the Montebello Unified School District, with a third cohort of trainees expected next year.
“This work and this program go beyond reducing stigma,” she shares. “We’re cultivating a space where young people can lead conversations around mental health in their schools and homes. That’s the kind of impact that has the power to change communities and generations.”
