Transforming Mental Health Education: Emplify Health and Marquette University Launch Innovative Partnership

Green Bay has exciting news! Emplify Health by Bellin and Marquette University are teaming up to kick off the Resch Mental Health Initiative. This seven-year pilot program aims to tackle the urgent shortage of mental health professionals in Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Thanks to a generous gift from The Richard J. Resch Foundation, this initiative will help students navigate the path from education to employment in mental health care. The goal is to recruit 25 students from the local area, assist them in obtaining a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, and provide real-world training under the guidance of experienced supervisors.

Chris Woleske, Executive Vice President of Emplify Health, said, “This initiative is a big step in providing the quality mental health care our communities need.” Collaborating with local health centers and the Resch Foundation, they hope to fill the gap in mental health services.

Debbie Patz, Vice President of Bellin Psychiatric Center, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how they aim to break down barriers in mental health education. With this program, financial worries won’t block future providers from making a difference.

Key features of the program include:

• Tuition Support: Selected students will receive full tuition coverage and stipends.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience at Emplify Health facilities, complete with a paid practicum and internship.
• Mentorship: Each student will have access to dedicated mentors.
• Job Opportunities: Graduates will have the chance to work with Emplify Health right after completing their studies.
• Incentives: Sign-on and retention bonuses will further encourage graduates to stay in the region.

Sharon Resch of The Richard J. Resch Foundation believes that investing in mental health education will promote a healthier community. The program is expected to assist around 26,000 clients annually—illustrating significant potential savings. According to a 2023 study by the New England Journal of Medicine, the cost of untreated mental illness averages around $9,801 per person. This could translate to over $254 million in annual savings for local communities.

Scott D’Urso of Marquette University emphasizes the initiative’s importance in training future mental health professionals. “We’re excited to build a healthier community,” he said. The program aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being. With increasing awareness and acceptance over recent years, society is finally prioritizing mental health just as much as physical health.

The Resch Mental Health Initiative may not only improve access to mental health services but also inspire other regions facing similar challenges. It’s a bold move towards a brighter future.

For more information about the initiative, you can contact The Bellin Health Foundation at their email. Students can also reach out to Graduate Admission Counselor Jordan L. Mason at Marquette University for inquiries.

With ongoing efforts to enhance mental health care, programs like this one provide hope and direction for the future. Together, local organizations are demonstrating real commitment to community health.

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