Leadership Academy Presents Opportunities for Career Advancement and Strengthening the Behavioral Healthcare System
As demand for mental healthcare, substance use disorder (SUD) and support services (e.g., housing, supported education and employment) continues to increase while the behavioral healthcare system continues to struggle with recruiting and retaining qualified staff, the New Jersey Mental Health Institute launched the Leadership Academy for Behavioral Healthcare Professionals. This cost-effective program addresses the workforce crisis by encouraging behavioral healthcare providers to continue working in their organizations as they develop skills for future leadership positions.
“Behavioral health care will never be the same. There are greater demands, higher expectations, and fewer staff. Mentors and coaches provide unique insight into this new normal, allowing mentees to manage their own expectations. Through this academy, mentees also embark on a journey of self-discovery. They uncover beliefs, values and experiences that shape them as leaders. Discovering their best selves as leaders builds the capacity to support and value each individual, lending to much-needed retention.” - Valerie Ortense, BS, MBA, Leadership Academy Mentor, Director of Grants and Development, Preferred Behavioral Health Group
The Leadership Academy is open to mentees and mentors who are working (and, in the case of some mentors, have worked) in any aspects of the behavioral healthcare field, including clinical, administrative, legal, human resources, and information technology. It is also open to coaches in other industries whose different expertise and experience add to the value of this program.
NJMHI is seeking mentees, mentors, and coaches for the second cohort that will begin in September 2023. Applications are due June 15, 2023. Click here to access NJMHI’s Leadership Academy page to access mentee, mentor, and coach applications and fact sheets for more information. Please share these opportunities with your staff and colleagues!