The Washington State Behavioral Health Workforce Development Initiative supports master’s level mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists and clinical social workers committed to serving individuals and families with mental health and substance use challenges.
Thirteen universities are participating across the state. A network of more than 100 community behavioral health agencies and tribal health centers in Washington serve as student training sites and potential employers in the communities where students want to live and work.
Students participating in the initiative receive grants, up to $51,500, to offset master’s degree expenses by agreeing to serve three years in an approved Washington state community behavioral health agency or tribal health center following their graduation. The initiative also provides expert career placement and mentoring support.
We prepare mental health counselors to be ethical, reflective, and multiculturally competent leaders and change agents to work in clinical mental health, hospital, agencies, and college settings. Our program holds the distinction of being the first school counseling program in Seattle to be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Develop values, skills and knowledge in advanced clinical social work practice, including assessment of vulnerabilities, strengths and resilience in individuals, families and groups in social, cultural and historical contexts; evidence-based and culturally responsive interventions to restore and enhance functioning; advocacy for economic and social justice and human rights; and social justice focused, critical and professional use of self for service and social change. Our program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Clinical Social Work | Dr. Mary Kay Brennan
Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Dr. Vong Ratts