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This page features information on scholarship and grant opportunities available at Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) for degree-seeking and non-degree seeking students. View each scholarship and grant listing to confirm eligibility, deadlines, and application requirements.

Scholarships and grants featured on this page are affiliated with Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies. Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships and grant opportunities beyond those listed on this page. Explore external scholarship opportunities.


 

Scholarships

The Dr. Nicholas Cummings Scholarship for DBH Students

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) proudly offers the Dr. Nicholas Cummings scholarship. This scholarship was made possible by the generous donation of Dr. Dorothy Cummings. Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis and must follow the prompt/topic idea. To be considered, a scholarship application is required. Applying does not automatically mean an award.

  • One (1) – $2,400 one-time, non-renewable scholarship award, is available per academic term.
  • Scholarships are awarded per academic term.
  • Awarded students may apply for future scholarship opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements & Terms and Conditions

View tuition scholarship eligibility requirements.

Scholarship Application Deadlines

Academic Term: Spring II 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: March 7, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: March 19, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: March 21, 2025

Academic Term: Summer 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: June 13, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: June 25, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: June 27, 2025

Academic Term: Fall 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: September 3, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: September 5, 2025

About the Scholarship

Dr. Nicholas Cummings realized healthcare needed a revolution, and he was a talented agitator for change. He advanced professional psychology’s credibility and power as president of the American Psychological Association. As founding president of the California School of Professional Psychology, he ushered in a new movement in the training of psychologists. He launched influential organizations, including the National Academies of Practice and the National Council of Professional Schools of Psychology. At an age when other people slow down and retire, he founded American Biodyne, the nation’s first and only psychology-driven managed behavioral health organization. In the last decade of his life, he founded Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies, which provides unique doctoral training in behavioral health. And, he and his family established the Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health to carry on his work.

Dr. Cummings acted on the belief that it takes heart and soul to facilitate change and healing. His life’s work was focused on accelerating advancements in integrated behavioral healthcare towards an aim of access to high quality mental healthcare for all. He advocated for his students to create innovations that could transform how healthcare teams work to improve patient outcomes.

In the year just prior to his death, Dr. Cummings again confirmed his commitment to the future of integrated healthcare by dedicating a scholarship for CGI students to reduce the financial burden of pursuing a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree. All newly enrolled and continuing students in the Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program at CGI are eligible to apply.

How to Apply

Applicants for this scholarship should compose a 500 maximum word essay (two pages, double spaced) answering all of the following prompts in addition to completing the scholarship application (linked below).

  1. What is it about the legacy of Dr. Nicholas Cummings that inspires you?
  2. What is one innovation that you are inspired to pursue as a DBH student at CGI that would make Dr. Nicholas Cummings proud?
  3. How will you know you’ve accomplished your innovative vision?

Click here to complete the scholarship application.

How Scholarship Recipients are Notified of Award

Scholarship recipients are notified by email directly from the Institution by the date corresponding to the award term listed in the deadlines table above.

Questions about institutional scholarships can be directed to scholarships@cgi.edu.


 

Institutional Scholarships for Degree Seeking Students

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies offers institutional scholarships to both returning and first-year students enrolled in degree-seeking programs. Institutional scholarships are available on a limited basis each academic term. Funding is based on academic merit and consideration is given to all students who apply. These scholarships are made possible through generous donations and fundraising efforts of CGI.

  • Twelve (12) – $500 one-time one-time, non-renewable scholarship awards are available per academic year.
  • Scholarships are awarded per academic term.
  • Awarded students eligible to apply for future scholarship opportunities.
    Renewal is not automatic.

Eligibility Requirements & Terms and Conditions

View tuition scholarship eligibility requirements.

Scholarship Application Deadlines

Academic Term: Spring II 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: March 7, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: March 19, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: March 21, 2025

Academic Term: Summer 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: June 13, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: June 25, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: June 27, 2025

Academic Term: Fall 2025
Scholarship Application Deadline: August 22, 2025
Scholarship Recipients Announcement will take place by: September 3, 2025
Scholarship Applied to Student Account: September 5, 2025

How to Apply

To apply for a scholarship, complete the application form linked below and include your answer one of the questions below in an essay format. Essays should be a minimum of 300 words with a maximum of 500 words.

If you are a returning/existing student:

  1. How can a DBH impact healthcare within a specific population/geography/etc?
  2. How has your view of behavioral healthcare changed since enrolling at CGI?
  3. What is your vision for healthcare and how will you contribute to that vision?
  4. How will your vision disrupt current healthcare practices?
  5. Who is a practicing mentor in your field of work? And why?

If you are a new incoming student:

  1. Why do you want to pursue the DBH degree?
  2. How do you see the DBH program impacting your career?
  3. What are your career goals and how will the DBH degree contribute to them?
  4. Who is a practicing mentor in your field of work? And why?

Click here to complete the scholarship application.

How Scholarship Recipients are Notified of Award

Scholarship recipients are notified by email directly from the Institution by the date corresponding to the award term listed in the deadlines table above.

Questions about institutional scholarships can be directed to scholarships@cgi.edu.


Grants

Conference Presentation Grant

The grant is open to enrolled Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) students presenting at conferences. Students are required to submit a grant application to document the presentation and request funds. Students must have their presentation already accepted in order to be eligible for the grant. In addition, recipients of the grant are required to mention CGI in their presentation.

Eligibility Requirements & Terms and Conditions

View conference grant eligibility requirements.

Application Deadlines

These grants are ongoing and there is no deadline to submit. It is on a first come first serve basis. It is expected to have the submission in at a minimum of one month prior to attending and presenting at the conference.

How to Apply

To apply, fill out the Conference/Professional Development Grant Application.

These grants are ongoing and there is no deadline to submit. It is on a first come first serve basis. It is expected to have the submission in at a minimum of one month prior to attending and presenting at the conference.

Upon receiving the grant application, the COO will review the grants. Reviews will occur on a rolling basis.

The grant award is first come first serve. If an application is deemed acceptable by the COO. The COO will then notify the student via email. The review process can take around 1-3 weeks.

Questions

Questions about conference presentation grants can be directed to scholarships@cgi.edu.


 

Interested in applying to more scholarships?

Explore external scholarship opportunities.

Testimonials

As a member of the AAPI community, I’m very familiar with the barriers to mental health services and the need to break through the glass wall of cultural stigma that prevents many from receiving potentially life–saving treatment. I was the only Asian American person in my master’s cohort, the only Asian American person in many of my clinical work settings, the only Asian American person to walk into many of the professional settings that I pushed myself to show up to. In my current practice, I’m constantly reminded by my patients of how difficult it is to find an Asian American mental health provider, though this reminder constantly informs me that more needs to be done for my community. Day after day, I read stories of Asian American people who die by suicide as a consequence of our culture’s avoidance of mental health topics. As a DBH, my biggest goal is to use my expertise in whole–person care to amplify the conversation around mental health and help my community understand that mental healthcare is not a privilege that we are not entitled to, it is a crucial part of our healthcare that will manifest differently in us than what many Western psychology or psychiatry textbooks will describe, and that our unique experience of mental health issues are valid, important, and is time to be part of the larger conversation.

Willam Chum, LMHCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 16, 2022

The DBH represents something that I've always embraced in my professional career. And that's collaboration and working across a lot of different disciplines to make sure you’re delivering the best care for the patient. Everything is about being patient centered about finding innovative ways and creative ways to collaborate with other professionals.

CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCDDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 10, 2023

This program will change how you present to the world, not just as a professional but as an individual. Understand this is work but the work is worth it and the journey is undeniably transformative. If you are seeking a doctorate for the title, this is not the program for you. If you are seeking a doctorate to interrupt and disrupt the course of healthcare, then this is the program for you. You won’t find a more supportive program with professors who are dedicated to your success and your education. This program is not about the regurgitation of information. It is about the appropriate applied application of knowledge and information to push forward and become an advocate for equitable and quality care for all.

Brandy K. Biglow LMHC, CCTP, QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 5, 2024

The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program has definitely transformed my understanding of behavioral health. Understanding the links between physical and mental health has taught how to make better treatment decisions. The DBH program has also given me insights that otherwise would not be possible and allows me to view individuals through a lens that I was previously ignorant of. This program has helped me grow into a more confident individual, provider, and parent.

Cory H. Cannady, BCBA, LBADBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 13, 2024

The DBH program has been a pivotal turning point in my understanding and application of behavioral health principles. Recently, the concept of ‘whole person health’ has gained widespread attention in healthcare circles, becoming somewhat of a buzzword. Like many others, I embraced this term, believing in my capacity to deliver comprehensive care.

Prior to my engagement with the program, my approach, albeit well-intentioned, lacked an appreciation for the intricate interplay between physical and mental health. More importantly, the role of unmet social needs as a catalyst for health disparities was a dimension I had not fully integrated into my practice. The DBH program illuminated these connections, offering me a robust framework to understand and address the multifaceted needs of individuals, especially within marginalized communities.

Additionally, the confidence I have gained through the DBH program extends beyond theoretical knowledge. My role as a connector and advocate for these individuals has become more pronounced, driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering accessibility, equity, and comprehensiveness in care.

Michelle Stroebel MA, NCC, LCMHC, NADD-CCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - June 12, 2024

I have worked in behavioral health for the entirety of my professional career starting with college internships up to my current role as Deputy Executive Commissioner of Behavioral Health for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. While I have years of experience in the field, the DBH program at Cummings has framed my perspective as leveraging therapy as a first line of intervention. As a public servant, much of the work I do is usually in the aftermath of crises or when the system is being forced to respond to a service gap. However, the DBH program takes a much more proactive and integrative approach to health. This perspective/approach has the potential to positively shape policy in Texas in my role as a public servant charged with addressing the safety net needs of the most vulnerable constituents in Texas.

Trina K. Ita, MA, LPCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - July 10, 2024

CGI feels like a community of long-lost cousins that finally met as adults and we realized that we share the same goals. The support from the faculty and classmates have been nothing short of amazing. I can reach out to my advisor at any given time to discuss course work, career endeavors, or to just vent about life. There is a feeling of closeness and belongingness at CGI that is just unmatched. I am very happy to be a member of the family and will continue to spread the word of how great this DBH program is.

Michelle Francis, LCSW/LICSW-QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 10, 2024

The DBH program’s mission, purpose, and objective say it all: We strive for intentional care outcome improvement practices that exemplify whole person-centered integrated healthcare advanced competency. The program of study drives insights and awareness of the ever-changing patient population and multidisciplinary practice environments to change how the world experiences healthcare. This is further reinforced by the pillars of medical literacy, integrated behavioral health intervention, and entrepreneurship skills and expertise. Development growth is needed to prepare the aspiring DBH for the future of the shifting healthcare marketplace through international networking in a growing community of disruptive innovators and an evolving movement toward systemic healthcare change. I feel that I will be positioned alongside a fellowship of like-minded professionals trying to improve the quality of healthcare service delivery value and outcome sustainability.

Jose Mathew, LCSW, LAC, ACS, EMDR-T, CCTP-IIDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 8, 2024

The DBH program has reinforced my vision of viewing behavioral health (BH) as an integrated component of the healthcare system rather than a siloed service. As a practitioner in the focused BH realm of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, I observe on a regular basis how identifying and serving SUD patients is often missed, ignored and stigmatized in primary healthcare, despite the fact that early intervention at these check-points often has the potential to intervene earlier and lessen the negative SUD outcomes frequently seen by the time a patient reaches specialty SUD services. Reinforcement received in my DBH program has motivated me to promote integration as a leader in my workplace and is a primary factor in considering the long-term trajectory of my individual career path.

Kenneth L. Roberts, MPS, LPCC, LADCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 5, 2024

By becoming a DBH, I have found that I am able to have different conversations with different people. Before having my doctorate degree, I was able to speak to certain items in behavioral health, but was only seen as a licensed therapist where as a doctor, I am able to speak to the changemakers and policy makers in a more collaborative manner which then allows us as a group to enhance the services we are providing. I also found that as a DBH, my confidence in the treatment room has improved immensely and cases that may have been more difficult for me before are no longer as difficult due to the training I have received in the program.

Dr. Allison Earl, DBH, LPC-SDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 13, 2024

I think the DBH is quite groundbreaking, it allows you to study from anywhere in the world. The support is fantastic, and you can make out of the DBH what you want. Unlike standard professional doctorates, the DBH was trying to break new ground, not trying to go over just old ground. It greatly encourages its students to be those people who break new ground.

As a person who actually has a disability, I found CGI staff to be very supportive, very accommodating. If I need extensions, they are always there. In fact the staff will reach out and check on you, if they haven’t heard from you in a very short period of time. Which I have never had from any other university.

I find the community of fellow DBH students absolutely wonderful, we reach out across numerous social media platforms, we email each other. Doesn’t matter where I am in the world or where they are in the world, everyone is supportive. Its support, support and encouragement with the DBH.

Jason P. Sargent, B Policing, GDip Psych, MSW, JPDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 10, 2024

Graduating from the DBH program has influenced and enhanced my approach to addressing behavioral health challenges and making a difference in the field by preparing me to become a serious business owner. Through the DBH program, I understand now that becoming a business owner not only assists me in reaping the financial benefits of working for myself, but the program also offers me a sense of freedom to make a difference in an individual’s life.

Dr. Rebecca K. Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA, QBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 18, 2024

I have always wanted to pursue a higher degree but never found a program that met my needs. When I investigated the DBH program, I can honestly say I was excited. It was a program that would expand my knowledge in behavioral health but also how it relates to physical health. The philosophy of treating the whole person was exactly what I was looking for.

Elizabeth Nekoloff, M.Ed., LPCC-S, NCCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 16, 2025

Prior to obtaining my DBH, I practiced behavioral health within the boundaries of behavior analysis. The DBH degree has given me the ability to broaden my scope of competence allowing me to provide a higher quality of care to my clients through a person-centered approach, while still staying within my scope of practice. I was in the beginning stages of opening my business when I enrolled in the DBH program which set my trajectory towards being a stronger leader. The program equipped me with essential healthcare leadership and entrepreneurial skills, allowing me to ensure high-quality services for my clients and foster a supportive work environment for our staff. It has also given me the confidence to expand my business and pursue other healthcare ventures, reaching a broader range of patients in need.

Dr. Pauline Tolentino Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 21, 2025

Although I have worked with many patients who have mental health diagnoses, or behaviors which make managing their medical diagnoses and day to day life difficult, the DBH program at CGI is broadening that knowledge and providing a deeper understanding of behavioral health and how best to help these individuals manage their health and improve their quality of life. This will allow me to provide and advocate for more meaningful and seamless integrated care, providing new tools for my intervention toolbox, and the confidence and skills to collaborate within and lead whole person focused interdisciplinary teams. I also anticipate building upon my knowledge as a nurse case manager and long time caregiver, as well as my personal passions and professional vision, learning about processes and operations, to be in position to start up and lead my own company one day, offering the services and care I know every person should have access to.

Hollie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCMDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 11, 2025

The Doctor in Behavioral Health (DBH) program has changed my understanding of the subject and career path. Before this academic journey, my knowledge of behavioral health was primarily theoretical, including essential ideas and methods. However, the DBH curriculum combined intense academic research with practical application, helping me understand behavioral health from multiple angles. Recognizing mental health as part of total health changed my perspective. The biopsychosocial model, which showed how biological, psychological, and social variables affect mental health, was stressed in the DBH curriculum. This comprehensive approach made me realize how complex human behavior is and how important it is to address mental health issues. Effective interventions must target the individual’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences, not just symptoms. The curriculum also gave me enhanced evidence-based practice training to execute successful solutions. Studies methods and data analysis classes improved my critical thinking and allowed me to evaluate and apply behavioral health studies. This gave me the confidence to contribute to the field’s knowledge base through practice and research.

Dr. Rhea Hill, DBH, LPCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 17, 2025

The DBH program will open opportunities for me to contribute to healthcare system innovation, particularly through trauma-informed care and integrated behavioral health settings. I will be better positioned to advocate for and implement holistic care models that improve health outcomes for underserved populations. Ultimately, this program will help me transition into higher-level roles, such as a director or consultant in behavioral health, where I can influence broader system changes and contribute to the future of healthcare delivery.

DeKyn Rashad Peters, MPH-CHES,BSW/BA,APCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 4, 2025

The DBH program has been integral in preparing me for leadership roles by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of leadership within the behavioral health sector. Through coursework, case studies, and hands-on experiences, I have learned to lead with empathy, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning. The program has also honed my skills in organizational development, communication, and policy advocacy, equipping me to effectively lead teams, drive impactful change, and foster environments that promote positive behavioral health outcomes. With this training, I am confident in my ability to lead initiatives that address systemic barriers and improve care delivery.

Dr. Jerrika Henderson, DBH, CMHCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 18, 2025

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