Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Program - Project Abstract: Rural Recovery and Resilience Social Work Program The Rural Recovery and Resilience Social Work Program at Northeastern State University (NSU) School of Social Work aims to address critical behavioral health workforce shortages in northeastern Oklahoma by preparing a select group of 60 Master of Social Work (MSW) students over four years with enhanced skillsets to serve the region. This program targets Native American, rural, and medically underserved areas, focusing on behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The program will strengthen the behavioral health workforce in northeastern Oklahoma by equipping MSW students with evidence-based, trauma-informed care skills through an enhanced curriculum. NSU leverages its distinction as one of only two MSW programs in Oklahoma and the only program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) with a specialized focus on rural behavioral health to recruit students and build partnerships. Key program services include: 1. Offering interdisciplinary training in partnership with specialized programs. 2. Expanding field experience opportunities with organizations such as Cherokee Nation Behavioral Health, Green Country Behavioral Health, and Stigler Health and Wellness Center to provide real-world experience in integrated care settings, including school-based settings. 3. Integrating telehealth training to address geographic barriers and enhance service delivery. 4. Providing $25,000 annual stipends for 60 MSW students during their final specialization year to alleviate financial barriers and promote retention in medically underserved areas. The program also prioritizes diversity, emphasizing recruitment of underrepresented populations, including Native American and male students, to address demographic and gender gaps in the behavioral health workforce. The Rural Recovery and Resilience Social Work Program aligns with HRSA’s goals to increase access to behavioral health services, enhance health equity, and strengthen the workforce pipeline in medically underserved and rural communities. Funding Preference Requested: Medically Underserved Area (MUA)
