Ralston Institute launches tools to strengthen Georgia’s behavioral health workforce
The University of Georgia’s David Ralston Institute for Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities has launched two new resources designed to expand and clarify career pathways into Georgia’s behavioral health workforce.
These tools provide a clear roadmap for students, job-seekers, employers and policymakers working to address workforce shortages in mental health, substance use and developmental disability services.
“Georgia needs a strong workforce to meet the growing demand for behavioral health care,” said Orion Mowbray, Executive Director of the Ralston Institute. “More than 5 million Georgians live in areas without adequate access to mental health services. These resources will help grow the state’s behavioral health workforce by making it easier for students and job seekers to see how education pathways connect to real career opportunities in communities across Georgia.”
Led by behavioral health expert Wendy White Tiegreen, who has over 30 years of experience leading behavioral health policy, workforce development and recovery support system design at the state and national level, the Institute’s new Georgia Behavioral Health Professions (GBHP) hub offers the first comprehensive online directory of behavioral health roles and credential pathways in the state.
The site organizes careers into categories and outlines education and certification requirements, from entry-level supporters to licensed practitioners.
Complementing the hub, the Ralston Institute has created a companion resource for bachelor’s degree holders titled “What can I do with a bachelor’s degree?”
The site highlights real, in-demand roles that graduates can enter immediately, including case manager, behavioral health technician, crisis responder, mobile crisis team member and certified peer specialist.
In addition to these online tools, the Ralston Institute has expanded its statewide workforce coordination efforts, integrating behavioral health expertise with broader education and training initiatives.
This includes building a database of behavioral health education programs in the University System of Georgia and supporting evaluation efforts that help align workforce development with state needs.
These new resources are part of the Institute’s ongoing efforts to support Georgia’s workforce pipeline and connect residents with meaningful careers while strengthening access to services across communities.
“Georgia is at an important moment,” Mowbray said. “Across the state, we need stronger supports, better coordinated services, and solutions for individuals whose needs span multiple systems. The Ralston Institute plays a critical role in meeting this moment.”
For more information, visit fcs.uga.edu/ralston/gbhp.