Free Youth Mental Health Program to Launch in January

The new FAU initiative will offer counseling services to local families with children ages 6 through 17.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Pre-Teens

Free Youth Mental Health Program to Launch in January

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Florida Atlantic University is launching a free mental health counseling program for children ages 6 to 17 called OWLS-FLY. The initiative will begin serving clients in Boca Raton and across Palm Beach County in January 2027.

Why it matters

This program aims to bridge a critical gap in local care by addressing long wait lists for youth mental health services in the community. It provides families with access to professional support, including individual and group sessions, for the next three years.

The program is backed by a $1.2 million grant from the Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County to fund operations for three years. Services are available to children ages 6 through 17.

The players

Florida Atlantic University

A public research institution in Boca Raton that provides academic programs and clinical training facilities.

Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County

A local government agency that provides funding and oversight for programs dedicated to the health and well-being of children.

The details

The OWLS-FLY program operates out of the education building at Florida Atlantic University to provide mental health support through in-person sessions and telehealth. The service model includes group, individual, and family counseling along with targeted parental support. Beyond patient care, the facility functions as a training hub that offers clinical work experience to master's level students and recent graduates.

The program is set to welcome its first clients in January 2027.
Grant funding will support the program's operations for a three-year period.

The Home Front

This launch responds to the documented regional trend of insufficient mental health resources for local youth. By using a university setting to expand counseling capacity, the project addresses the ongoing challenge of long wait times for families in Palm Beach County.

Families facing wait times for pediatric mental health support should monitor the program for enrollment updates as the January 2027 launch approaches. Consider checking in with your pediatrician now to prepare any necessary referral documentation or history needed for intake.

The takeaway

This new initiative provides a vital, cost-free resource for families struggling to access mental health services in our area. Keep an eye on local university announcements in late 2026 to understand the specific application process for your children.