Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is once again offering its Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program, which aims to bolster the state's behavioral health workforce. The program is available to student interns enrolled in accredited bachelor's or master's degree programs in behavioral health.

“This program continues to demonstrate Michigan's dedication to improving the availability of mental health services for all families while investing in the growing need for a workforce to support those services,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “Last year, we were able to assist more than 225 students with their education costs as they gained hands-on behavioral health experience.”

The stipend program offers up to $15,000 per student to cover educational expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and living costs. Eligible students are those pursuing degrees leading to professions like marriage or family therapist, behavior analyst, social worker, professional counselor, or psychologist. MDHHS has set aside $1 million for this initiative, potentially benefiting around 100 interns based on individual funding qualifications.

To qualify, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited U.S. program and have an approved internship in Michigan that aligns with the stipend requirements. Participants will engage in surveys and evaluation activities related to the program and are encouraged to seek employment within Michigan's behavioral health sector after graduation.

Applications must be submitted online by Wednesday, January 22. Applicants will receive notification of their acceptance status within three weeks following the deadline.

For further details and application procedures, interested individuals can visit the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program website.