Behavioral Health Workforce Development in Washington State: Addition of a Behavioral Health Support Specialist.

Abstract

The mental and behavioral health workforce shortage has hindered access to care in the United States, resulting in long waitlists for persons who need behavioral health care. Global models for task sharing, combined with U.S.-led studies of nonspecialists delivering interventions for depression and anxiety, support the development of this workforce in a stepped care system. This Open Forum highlights an innovative effort in Washington State to initiate a bachelor’s-level behavioral health support specialist (BHSS) curriculum leading to credentialing to expand the mental health workforce and improve access to care for people with depression and anxiety. 

A BHSS has a four-year degree typically in psychology, social work or behavioral health care and completes a 240-hour practicum.

Citation

O’Connell, W. P., Renn, B. N., Areán, P. A., Raue, P. J., & Ratzliff, A. (2024). Behavioral Health Workforce Development in Washington State: Addition of a Behavioral Health Support Specialist. Psychiatric Services, appi.ps.20230312. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.20230312.