Grassroots Action Center
The Situation
The behavioral health workforce shortage continues to limit access to care across the country, especially in rural, underserved, and high-need communities. To address this growing crisis, Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) has introduced the Mental Health Career Promotion Act (H.R. 7394), which would establish a new federal grant program to promote careers in mental and behavioral health among high school and community college students.
Why This Matters
Early exposure to mental and behavioral health career pathways is a critical way to build a strong, diverse, and sustainable workforce. This bill invests in partnerships between high schools, community colleges, and community-based mental health organizations to create clear, supported pathways into mental and behavioral health professions. By prioritizing culturally and developmentally appropriate programming and ensuring geographic diversity, this act helps ensure that future providers reflect and can serve the communities that most need care.
Impact on Counselors
Counselors are explicitly recognized as essential mental and behavioral health professionals under this legislation. The Mental Health Career Promotion Act would strengthen the pathways into Counseling and related professions by supporting mentorship, internships, career exploration, and experiential learning opportunities. Over time, this investment can help reduce workforce shortages, ease caseload pressures, and improve access to counseling services nationwide.
Act Today
Your voice matters. Contact your representative today and urge them to support the Mental Health Career Promotion Act. An investment in the future behavioral health workforce is an investment in access to care, community well-being, and the Counseling profession!
