Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Program - Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) proposes Pathways to Excellence: Building the Rural Behavioral Health Workforce in New Mexico (Pathways Project), a strategic initiative designed to address the critical shortage of behavioral health professionals in rural Eastern New Mexico. This region faces a significant gap in culturally and linguistically responsive care, exacerbating the challenges for children, youth and families seeking services. The Pathways Project aims to meet these needs by developing a novel educational and training framework within ENMU's newly established Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Key components of the project include recruiting and supporting clinical social work students who are committed to addressing child and youth wellbeing and behavioral health challenges in high-demand areas, with a focus on Hispanic students; developing and deploying new training modules; incorporating advanced technologies; and expanding community partnerships for MSW student field placements. Over the four year project period, the Pathways Project will: Graduate 40 students equipped with interprofessional competencies and tailored clinical skills, prepared to work with children, adolescents, and young adults. Develop new training modules for MSW students and field supervisors to build skills and knowledge in interprofessional education and cultural competence. Recruit and equip field supervisors to deliver high-quality field supervision and provide financial support to supervisors, addressing inherent challenges in field supervision in our high-demand, low-resource region. Collaborate with seven agencies on expanded field placements, adding another five agencies over the project period. By addressing non-academic barriers through targeted financial aid, mentorship, and telehealth support services, ENMU will support student academic success and career readiness. This initiative not only addresses immediate workforce shortages but also sets the stage for sustained improvements as key components of this project are integrated into the MSW program into the future. ENMU requests Funding Preference 3 for its new program and seeks Funding Priority 1 for its demonstrated ability to train professionals in integrated care settings. This project stands to significantly advance the behavioral health landscape in rural New Mexico by preparing a culturally competent workforce dedicated to community well-being.
