Behavioral Health Workforce Development in the United States

Mental health and substance use conditions are among the most prominent causes of illness and disability in the U.S. Yet less than half of the individuals with these conditions receive treatment (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2011; Office of National Drug Control Policy [ONDCP], 2013). While there are many impediments to accessing care, the absence of a workforce that is of sufficient size and adequately trained is a significant factor (Olfson, 2016). This chapter provides an overview of the U.S. behavioral health workforce and describes seven strategic areas in which activity has been undertaken to strengthen it. The initiatives of the Annapolis Coalition on the Behavioral Health Workforce are presented to highlight these strategic areas, which include assessment and planning; competency identification and development; roles for persons in recovery and family members; integrated care and interprofessional collaboration; workforce development in substance use; diversity and cultural competency; and knowledge dissemination and adoption of best practices.