Behavioral Health Scholarship Program
Get up to $35,000 towards a degree or certificate program in Behavioral Health.
“This financial support has a huge impact on my educational goals. I’m also thinking about getting my doctorate in social work because of this scholarship.”
Kevin Tran | Social Work Student
Are you passionate about addressing behavioral health needs in underserved communities?
The Behavioral Health Scholarship Program (BHSP) is your opportunity to make a difference. With scholarships of up to $35,000, BHSP supports students and trainees on their journey to becoming licensed behavioral health professionals. In return, recipients commit to a 12-month service obligation providing direct care in California’s underserved areas.
Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable future for all Californians.
Why Pursue a Career in Behavioral Health?
Meet Critical Needs
Behavioral health professionals play a vital role in addressing mental health challenges and supporting well-being in underserved communities. Through direct care services, you’ll impact lives by providing essential support to individuals and groups.
Foster Equity
As a behavioral health practitioner, you’ll advocate for equal access to care and help bridge systemic gaps in mental health services. Your dedication will empower individuals and uplift entire communities.
Diverse Career Paths
Behavioral health careers encompass a wide range of roles, from licensed therapists to community health workers. With BHSP, you can pursue a fulfilling career that aligns with your passion for service and social justice.
“This scholarship will help me to manage the overwhelming costs of grad school. This award will allow me to focus on my studies while continuing to provide services to the children in our exceptionally underserved community.”
Mariah Funderburg | Marriage and Family Therapist Student
Scholarship Details
What Does it Cover?
| The BHSP offers up to $35,000 for associate and bachelor’s degree students, and up to $25,000 for certificate and graduate-level students to cover eligible education costs, including: |
|---|
| Tuition and fees |
| Housing, books, and supplies |
| Transportation and dependent care (if applicable) |
In return, recipients commit to a 12-month service obligation providing full-time direct care at an eligible facility in an underserved community.
Eligibility Requirements
| Applicants must: |
|---|
| Be accepted or enrolled in an accredited program leading to a behavioral health profession (see full list below). |
| Demonstrate costs associated with attendance for one year of study. |
| Commit to providing direct care in a qualifying facility for 12 months after graduation. |
Eligible Behavioral Health Professions
| BHSP supports students pursuing careers as: | |
|---|---|
| Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist | Assistant Psychologist |
| Associate, Bachelor or Master Degreed Social Worker | Bachelor Level Mental Health Worker |
| Behavioral Health Case Managers | Behavioral Health Case Managers |
| Certified Peer Specialist | Behavioral Disorder Counselor |
| Behavioral Health Assistant | Board Certified Behavior Analyst |
| Community Health Worker/Promotor | Community Response Counselor |
| Licensed Applied Behavioral Analysist | Licensed Clinical Psychologist |
| Licensed or Associate Clinical Social Worker | Licensed or Associate Marriage and Family Therapist |
| Licensed or Associate Professional Clinical Counsel | Licensed Psychiatric Technician |
| Mental/Behavioral Health Services Specialist | Mental Health Care Specialist |
| Mental Health Counselor | Mental Health Rehabilitation Specialist |
| Occupational Therapist | Occupational Therapist Assistant |
| Peer Personnel Specialist | Psychiatric Aid |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Psychiatric Registered Nurse |
| Registered Psychological Associate | School Psychologist |
Eligible Service Locations
| Grantees will serve in qualified facilities such as: |
|---|
| Community-based behavioral health organizations |
| Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) |
| Tribal communities |
| Public K-12 schools and universities |
| Correctional facilities |
| Rural healthcare centers |
| Substance use disorder treatment programs |
Key Dates
| Application Opens: | January 2, 2025, at 3:00 PM |
| Informational Webinar: | January 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM |
| Application Deadline: | February 13, 2025, at 3:00 PM |
| Award Notice Date: | April 1, 2025 |
| Service Obligation Start Date: | September 1, 2025 |
“I would like to work with youth who are mentally challenged, exercising empathy as someone who has been there and knows what it is like to need to have someone that feels warm. Because of this scholarship, I am able to continue with school, university level.”
Althea Green | Psychology Student
How to Apply
- Check Your Eligibility: Use our Eligibility Checker to verify that you’re able to apply.
- Prepare Your Application: Gather proof of enrollment, cost of attendance estimates, and other required materials.
- Submit Your Application: Apply online between January 2 and February 13, 2025.
Shape the Future of Behavioral Health!
Join the Behavioral Health Scholarship Program and take the next step toward a rewarding career that changes lives. Applications close February 13, 2025, so don’t miss this chance to make a meaningful impact.
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