Behavioral Health Assistant

The Behavioral Health Assistant micro-credential/certificate is qualified BHA (Behavioral Health Administration) and ensures students develop entry-level behavioral health knowledge and competencies. Upon completion of this coursework, students will be a Qualified Behavioral Health Assistant as outlined by the Behavioral Health Administration. The curriculum includes entry-level skills and foundational knowledge about behavioral health and wellness, intercultural competency, therapeutic communication, case management, and crisis intervention. Students who complete the Behavioral Health Assistant micro-credential are equipped with skills and competencies from this pathway that include:

1. Understanding of Behavioral Health and Healthcare Systems
2. Empathy and Healthy Boundaries
3. Therapeutic Communication Skills
4. Case Management and Documentation
5. Crisis Intervention and Wellness
6. Trauma-Informed Care and Cultural Competency

Medicaid Competencies: Under supervision, these individuals will be able to do elements of: Wellness Promotion, Education, Community Needs Assessment, Screening, Referral, Crisis Management, Case Management, Orientation to Services, and Individual & Group Interventions. 
This micro-credential/certificate will stack to the Behavioral Health Mental Health & Social Work AAS

Mental Health:
This includes conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia. Behavioral health professionals seek to understand how cognitive and emotional processes influence behavior and decision-making.

Substance Use and Addictions:
Behavioral health examines the psychological and social factors that contribute to alcohol and drug use, as well as compulsive behaviors like gambling or overeating.

Health-Related Behaviors:
It also looks at behaviors that impact physical health, such as smoking, exercise, sleep habits, nutrition, and medication adherence.

Preventive and Holistic Care:
Modern behavioral health integrates preventative care, promoting resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy coping mechanisms across the lifespan.

Fields Involved in Behavioral Health

• Psychology and Psychiatry
• Social Work
• Counseling and Therapy
• Public Health
• Nursing and Primary Care
• Education and School Support Services

These professionals often work collaboratively in hospitals, clinics, schools, and community centers to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Why Behavioral Health Matters

• Whole-Person Wellness:
  Behavioral health recognizes that mental and emotional well-being is as important as physical health.
• Reducing Stigma:
  By integrating behavioral health into primary care and public health, the field helps normalize discussions around mental health and recovery.
• Improved Outcomes:
  Addressing behavioral health can lead to better outcomes in chronic disease management, job performance, academic success, and overall quality of life.

Current Trends and Challenges

• Telehealth Expansion:
  Digital therapy and mental health apps are transforming access to care.
• Integrated Care Models:
  Behavioral health is increasingly being embedded into primary care settings to provide seamless, coordinated treatment.
• Social Determinants:
  Recognizing that factors like poverty, trauma, housing, and discrimination deeply impact behavioral health.
• Workforce Shortages:
  There is growing demand for trained professionals, especially in rural and underserved areas.