Behavioral Health Workforce Development
The 2019 Understanding Houston report found that in the area comprising Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, the mental health provider to resident ratio is just 1:988, well below the national average. The situation is even more dire across the state, with Williamson County being the lone Texas county without a full or partial MHPSA designation as of November 2022 (Rural Health Information Hub, 2022). In addition to the overall shortage, the homogeneity of providers also is a significant issue of concern. In addition, while research shows that a diverse health care workforce can improve access, satisfaction, and communication for patients of color, ethnic minorities remain significantly underrepresented in behavioral health professions.
In order to address these issues, NBHP’s Behavioral Health Workforce, Recruitment, Education and Development Initiative (WREDI) works to ensure we have a qualified, linguistically- and culturally-competent behavioral health workforce that is equipped to meet the growing mental and emotional needs of our region’s residents. The key components of the program include:
In order to address these issues, NBHP’s Behavioral Health Workforce, Recruitment, Education and Development Initiative (WREDI) works to ensure we have a qualified, linguistically- and culturally-competent behavioral health workforce that is equipped to meet the growing mental and emotional needs of our region’s residents. The key components of the program include:
- Providing educational presentations to high school and college students to increase exposure to and knowledge of the behavioral health field;
- Coordinating externships for high school and college students who demonstrate an interest in behavioral health;
- Providing scholarships for postsecondary students enrolled in a behavioral health program of study;
- Hosting a quarterly behavioral health roundtable discussion for behavioral health professionals and educations to convene to improve education and employment;
Network of Behavioral Health Providers
9401 Southwest Freeway
Houston, TX 77074
Phone: 713-970-3410
9401 Southwest Freeway
Houston, TX 77074
Phone: 713-970-3410