New program aims to alleviate mental health professional shortage in Northeast Wisconsin

PC: Fox 11 Online

GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) — Emplify Health by Bellin and Marquette University have announced the launch of the Resch Mental Health Initiative

The seven-year pilot program is aimed at addressing the shortage of mental health professionals in Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

This initiative, made possible by a grant from The Richard J. Resch Foundation to The Bellin Health Foundation, will provide a fully supported pathway for students from education to licensure to employment, significantly enhancing mental health care in the region.

The Resch Mental Health Initiative proactively recruit 25 students from Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, assist them in earning a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and provide supervised training with a clinical supervisor hired by Emplify Health by Bellin.

“The Resch Mental Health Initiative is a transformative step toward addressing the mental health professional shortage in our region,” said Chris Woleske, Emplify Health Executive Vice President and Bellin Region President. “By providing a comprehensive and supported pathway from education to employment, we are ensuring our communities have access to the high-quality mental health care they deserve.”

Key program components include:

• Fully Funded Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Selected students will receive full tuition coverage and stipend support for an online master’s degree.
• Hands-On Clinical Training: Students will complete all clinical training components, including a paid practicum, internship and post-graduate fellowship, at
  Emplify Health by Bellin locations.
• Mentorship and Professional Development: The program includes mentorship and professional development opportunities, ensuring students are well-supported and well-prepared to enter the workforce.
• Employment Path: Graduates will have the opportunity for employment at Emplify Health by Bellin.
• Sign-On and Retention Bonuses: Additional incentives, such as sign-on and retention bonuses, will further support the retention of professionals in the region.

The seven-year pilot program also is expected to have a substantial economic impact, with program graduates working with an estimated 26,000 clients per year.

Interested students may access more information here or contact Graduate Admission Counselor Jordan L. Mason at (414) 288-0327 or jordan.l.mason@marquette.edu.