Nayeli Tello

Nayeli Tello is a bilingual Behavioral Health Clinician who focuses on substance use and trauma-informed care for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. Through her work with the San Francisco Department of Public Health, Special Programs for Youth, located within the San Francisco Juvenile Justice Center, she provides culturally responsive support to adolescents navigating behavioral health and substance use challenges. Through her work, she conducts behavioral health and substance use assessments, including AADIS, COWS, and CRAFFT screenings, to help identify client needs and guide appropriate interventions and support services. Tello also provides psychoeducation through both individual sessions and group-based work, helping youth build insight, develop healthier coping skills, and strengthen emotional awareness.

The San Francisco Department of Public Health’s mission is to safeguard and promote the health and well-being of all San Francisco residents. Within the department, Special Programs for Youth provides trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and accessible healthcare services to youth involved in the juvenile justice system. SPY works to support the physical, emotional, and behavioral well-being of adolescents by addressing their unique healthcare needs in a safe and supportive environment. Services include primary medical care, behavioral health support focused on substance use and mental health, health education, and coordination of additional care such as dental services, subspecialty referrals, and STI screening. Through a multidisciplinary and youth-centered approach, SPY aims to reduce barriers to care, promote healthy development, and provide early intervention and support for vulnerable youth during critical stages of their lives.