Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Program - Oakland University's Social Work and Counseling Programs propose the Behavioral Health Academy (BHA) fellowship to train master’s students, focusing on medically underserved and economically disadvantaged areas in Oakland, Genesee, Macomb, Lapeer and Wayne Counties. Over the next four years, we will train and graduate 80 master’s level students from our Behavioral Health Academy fellowship program. The fellowship aims to increase access to behavioral health services, develop interprofessional training, and integrate behavioral health into primary care settings. It targets the training of clinicians, case managers, and leaders to address the mental health needs of adults, children, adolescents, and young adults at risk for mental health issues, trauma, and behavioral disorders. The program prioritizes team-based care models and aims to recruit a diverse workforce committed to serving in high-need area. Each student will also be paired with a professional mentor and a behavioral health coach, further enhancing professional development and specialized skills during their practicum/internship. The program aims to recruit diverse fellows, particularly from underrepresented minority groups, through partnerships with various organizations for clinical training and job placement in medically underserved communities. It will offer comprehensive support to students, including academic resources, mental health services, financial aid, disability support, and professional development for career placement. Program Qualification: This grant application is under Qualification 3: New Program, as our MSW program, operational for three years, has graduated only two classes thus far. Anticipated Outcomes: Over the next four years, we aim to train and graduate 80 master’s level students, preparing them to effectively address the complexities faced by marginalized individuals in unserved communities.
