About MindBridge
MindBridge is an innovative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program designed to serve four key populations: children with developmental disabilities, transitional-aged youth (18-24) with developmental disabilities, adults with developmental disabilities, and their parents and caregivers. We address a critical gap in mental health services for these underserved communities, who face disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges—with 30-50% of individuals with developmental disabilities experiencing co-occurring mental health conditions compared to just 8-18% of typically developing peers. Our comprehensive approach includes structured classroom curricula that combine CBT-based psychoeducation with art therapy activities, alongside at-home exercises and resources designed for adults, parents, and caregivers to reinforce learning beyond formal sessions. All materials incorporate visual supports, simplified language, and hands-on activities tailored to diverse learning needs and developmental levels.
Our Research
Our pilot study, conducted in partnership with AbilityPath’s social recreation program, evaluated MindBridge’s 8-week classroom curriculum with 10 transitional-aged youth participants with various developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and Down syndrome. While traditional quantitative measures proved challenging for this population, our qualitative analysis revealed significant improvements in two key areas: increased self-regulation skills and enhanced social confidence. Participants demonstrated real-world application of coping strategies, with educators observing behaviors like taking intentional breaks during stress and improved social engagement. These findings contribute valuable insights to the limited research on adapting evidence-based mental health interventions for neurodivergent youth and demonstrate the potential for community-based CBT programming to provide meaningful psychosocial benefits across multiple settings. We are currently in the process of getting our research paper published in an international academic journal. A comprehensive video highlighting our time at AbilityPath and the impact of our program are available below.
We’re excited to expand MindBridge to additional schools and nonprofits including Oak Hill School, Learn Academy, Parents Helping Parents, and the Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area. Learn more about our program and research at www.mindbridgecbt.com.
Co-Founders
Ariya Kaushek & Kinsey Nam
(Awarded the Social Entrepreneurship in Action Grant Menlo School 2025)