NAMI Ask the Expert: A Journey of Youth Mental Health

Course overview

This course, based on the Ask the Expert webinar series by NAMI, explores the personal and professional journey of Diana Chao, who founded Letters to Strangers while navigating her own youth mental health challenges. Through storytelling, evidence-based discussion, and clinical insight, the training examines intergenerational trauma, cultural stigma, and psychosomatic symptoms, while highlighting the power of peer connection and advocacy. The course provides actionable strategies for supporting youth, fostering resilience, and addressing systemic barriers that impact minority and immigrant populations. The course, with an intended audience of social workers, psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and counselors, also presents research-grounded insights into youth mental health challenges and effective culturally informed approaches.