Addressing Mental Health Worker Shortages: Insights from Experts

In 2021, the American Association of Medical Colleges published troubling statistics. The state of Illinois could meet only 24% of the mental health needs of its population.

Progress in Mental Health Workforce

Since then, notable progress has been made. A significant legislative change removed the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) MSW exam. This exam was biased and previously mandatory for licensed social workers (LSWs) in Illinois. As a result, the number of LSWs increased dramatically. It jumped from 5,037 in December 2021 to 10,086 in 2023.

Although this rise is encouraging, it does not completely resolve the issue. A recent report by the Health Resources & Services Administration revealed that 51% of the state’s residents live in areas identified as “mental health professional shortage areas.”

The reality is clear: Illinois and the entire country need more professionals to support those facing mental health challenges.

Attracting Workers to the Mental Health Field

In a thought-provoking podcast interview, Morayo Orija from Mental Health America Illinois talked with Dr. Joe Troiani, Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at Adler University in Chicago and a board member of MHAI, along with Brooke Werner, a graduate student at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology where she is pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Both Dr. Troiani and Brooke share a journey marked by a genuine interest in mental health. Dr. Troiani explains, “I’ve had a long-term interest in mental health and substance abuse problems. Part of that is what I’ve seen in my own family.” He began his education in theater and mass media but discovered his passion for mental health and switched majors.

Brooke's path reflects a similar journey. She says, “I took a couple of psychology courses, and it fascinated me. I decided to make it my major.”

Graduate student, Brooke Werner

The Shortage of Mental Health Workers

The need for young professionals like Brooke in the mental health field has never been greater. Dr. Troiani highlights several factors contributing to the current shortage.

Despite the increase in healthcare professionals, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic still looms large. As Dr. Troiani, a military veteran, notes, “The restrictions had consequences. In the military alone, mental health diagnoses have gone up 40% since COVID.”

Furthermore, many potential students delayed their education during the pandemic. Those who might have pursued degrees in psychology postponed their plans, exacerbating the workforce shortage. Dr. Troiani stresses, “If there was ever a great time to come into the field, it’s now.”

It’s Never Too Late

Young individuals like Brooke are entering the mental health field at an early stage in their careers. She follows a “usual route” by graduating in 2023 before starting her master’s program in spring 2024. Currently, she is applying for internships to gain additional experience.

However, this traditional trajectory isn’t the only path. Dr. Troiani frequently encounters students who are pursuing a second career later in life. Many of these students, often in their 30s or 40s, have valuable lived experiences with mental health challenges.

He mentions, “There are lots of veteran students who have experienced PTSD and now want to gain the tools and knowledge to help those in a similar situation.”

A Rewarding Career for Life

Mental health careers are not just accessible; they are also immensely rewarding. Dr. Troiani expresses this sentiment, saying, “If you help one person, you’ve helped the world. That’s rewarding; it’s energizing.”

Brooke eagerly anticipates her future in the field, sharing, “I hear all these things from my professors, but I’ve not been in the field yet. I’m excited to get to work with people.”

While a career in mental health can be fulfilling, it is also one that can be pursued well into the later stages of life. According to Dr. Troiani, “Provided you have your mental faculties, you can continue almost indefinitely while also being excited to see what new ideas younger people bring to the equation.”

The increased access of rural communities to mental health care through remote consultations stands as a testament to how innovation is shaping the future of mental health care.

Are You Passionate About Mental Health?

If you feel a calling to support others in the realm of mental health, now is the time to consider training in this field. The demand for mental health support is rising, and various programs exist to help aspiring professionals.

Dr. Troiani highlights the availability of loan forgiveness programs, scholarships for military personnel, and other financial opportunities. This makes pursuing a career in mental health more accessible for many.

If you would like to learn more about entering the field, reach out to us today. We can connect you with the right resources, whether it's about financial support, the educational journey, or potential career paths.

Follow your passion – contact us today!