Problem Statement
There is broad consensus that there is a crisis regarding the nation’s behavioral health workforce.
This crisis is characterized by a range of problems that includes the following:
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Difficulty finding or recruiting interested or qualified providers.
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Difficulty keeping or retaining employees once hired. Turnover rates in behavioral health organizations typically range from 20-70% annually.
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The existing workforce is aging and there is an inadequate flow of new workers to fill the jobs held by those who will retire over the next decade.
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A lack of providers qualified to care for children, adolescents and the elderly.
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Sever shortages of behavioral health providers in rural America.
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The use of ineffective training techniques and a reduction in the amount of overall training being delivered due to financial constraints in provider organizations.
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Decreased levels of supervision of direct care staff.
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The absence of training in management and leadership skills for the next generation of leaders in this field.
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The absence of training and supports for persons in recovery and families who care for themselves and each other.