Michigan's Initiative for Child Behavioral Health
In a significant move to bolster the training for mental health professionals, Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has awarded a contract to the Public Consulting Group (PCG). This partnership aims to establish a Capacity Building Center (CBC) designed explicitly for enhancing access to training for providers focused on children's behavioral health.
Background and Purpose
The establishment of the CBC is a response to the ongoing need for specialized training among public mental health providers. Following a competitive bidding process, PCG was selected due to its extensive experience in the public sector and successful record in health and human services programming. With more than 200 courses slated for creation, the CBC seeks to address vital training gaps for approximately 5,000 mental health service providers operating through Community Mental Health Service Programs and Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans in Michigan.
Scope of Training Offered
The Capacity Building Center will not only focus on training delivery but also on creating Learning Communities. These communities are intended to foster quality improvement opportunities by facilitating ongoing meetings and activities tailored for providers of children's behavioral health services. Some key topics of initial training include:
- - Medicaid-funded specialty behavioral health services
- - Intensive Care Coordination with Wraparound processes
- - Michigan's Children’s Waiver Program
- - Services for Serious Emotional Disturbance Waivers
- - Intensive Crisis Stabilization Services
- - Evaluation and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder
- - The Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths assessment tool used in Michigan.
Jen MacBlane, Human Services Manager at PCG, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration, stating that the CBC is set to provide valuable resources aimed at enhancing workforce capacity. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of behavioral health services to children and their families across the state.
Looking Ahead
Furthermore, the CBC is expected to officially launch its website in May 2025, promising enhanced accessibility to its resources for professionals in the field. PCG’s expertise spans over 35 years in the sector, underlining their commitment to impact the lives of those in need positively. Jill Reynolds, PCG’s Human Services Associate Practice Area Director, articulates the firm’s dedication to improving outcomes and fiscal performance within the state’s training and workforce development schemes.
Conclusion
As Michigan embarks on this transformative journey for children’s behavioral health training, the collaboration with Public Consulting Group signifies a promising step in the right direction. By enhancing the capabilities of behavioral health providers, the state aims not only to mend the gaps in training access but also to ensure better mental health outcomes for its younger population. The initiative is a clear indication of Michigan’s commitment to improving public health standards and supporting its communities.
For additional information about Public Consulting Group and their services, you can visit their
official site.