Mental health and substance use challenges affect every community, every family, and every generation. As awareness grows and stigma declines, more people are seeking care—but there are not enough trained behavioral health professionals to meet the demand.
Across the country and here in Colorado, healthcare systems, schools, community organizations, and employers are searching for qualified professionals who can make a difference.
The Community College of Denver is stepping up to help meet that demand by providing a high-quality behavioral health education that not only opens the opportunity for fulfilling careers, but also for the chance to change lives.
A Growing Need Across the Country
Demand for mental health services is expected to continue growing throughout the next decade as communities respond to increased mental health needs. Despite this, critical shortages are affecting many behavioral health career pathways such as:
- Mental Health Counselors
- Addiction Counselors
- Marriage & Family Therapists
- Psychologists
- Social Workers
- Psychiatric providers
A similar story is playing out here in Colorado as well. Per the Colorado Rural Health Center, the state is expected to face a shortage of more than 4,400 behavioral health professionals, meaning longer waitlists and limited access to care, particularly in rural and low-income communities.
To address this growing issue, institutions like the Community College of Denver are leading the way as a key part of the st
ate’s solution.
CCD is Helping Build the Workforce
Colorado Community College System leaders have developed a policy of stackable behavioral health education as a key strategy for rapidly expanding the workforce while creating affordable pathways into high-demand careers.
Rather than requiring students to wait years before entering the workforce, new stackable credential pathways allow students to earn industry-recognized credentials, gain experience, begin working, and continue advancing towards higher degrees over time.
Students can begin with foundational certificates, continue into continue into associate or bachelors degrees, and eventually pursue graduate education if they choose.
This approach allows graduates to enter the workforce sooner, build valuable experience, increase their earning potential over time, and continue advancing professionally without starting over.
Whether a student's goal is direct client care, case management, behavioral health support, social services, or long-term licensure, every step builds toward greater opportunity. All in all, This innovative policy enables students to build their resume and gain essential industry experience while they work towards their degree.
"Colorado's behavioral health workforce is one of the most critical needs facing our communities today. Every new professional entering this field has the opportunity to change lives while building a rewarding and meaningful career. At CCD, we're committed to preparing students with the knowledge, practical experience, and support they need to make an immediate impact."
— Agnes Palej-Ramirez
Department Chair Behavioral Health, Human Services and Social Work, Assistant Professor
Why Community College of Denver?
Between an emphasis on affordability, flexible learning options, and relevant, real-world based curriculum, CCD is the best choice for those who are looking to make a difference in their own lives and their communities with a career in behavioral health services.
70% of CCD students graduate without student debt. As an institution, CCD is committed to providing all students from all backgrounds the opportunity to advance their careers and education.
Student Services are available to meet students where they are and provide them with resources they need to succeed.
In doing so, CCD ensures that students can take full advantage of industry-informed curriculum designed in consult with industry-leading partners and taught by faculty with real world experience.
This career-focused and student-centric approach ensures that behavioral health students are set up for success and supported as they enter a career that is both personally fulfilling, and beneficial to their communities.
Interested in making a difference?
Explore CCD's Behavioral Health programs and discover how you can begin a career helping individuals, families, and communities thrive.
Learn more about CCD Behavioral Health programs → here
