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Understanding Training Models to Strengthen the Faith-Based Behavioral Health Workforce

Published: 2026-09-15
Updated: 2026-09-15

Project Description

This cross-sectional study will survey directors of accredited MDiv programs and conduct follow-up interviews to document the geographic distribution, structure, and funding of dual-degree programs pairing theological training with social work or counseling degrees. Findings will inform workforce planning and financing strategies that leverage faith leaders to expand access to behavioral health care in underserved communities.

Program on Health Workforce Research and Policy

Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

CB# 7590

725 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7590

BHWorkforce@unc.edu

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This project is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U81HP46529 Cooperative Agreement for a Regional Center for Health Workforce Studies. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by SAMHSA, HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.