Expanding Colorado’s Mental Health Workforce Through Equity and Education
The University of Colorado Denver’s School of Education & Human Development (SEHD) is leading a transformative effort to diversify and strengthen the mental health workforce in Colorado. As mental health needs continue to rise, SEHD is preparing culturally responsive practitioners who reflect the populations they serve and are equipped to address disparities in care.
A Critical Need for Representation
Colorado ranked 46th in the nation for mental illness prevalence and access to care, according to Mental Health America’s 2024 report. Residents face elevated rates of mental illness, substance use and major depressive episodes. Yet for many individuals of color, finding a mental health provider who understands their cultural background remains a significant challenge.
Nationally, the mental health workforce is 81 percent white, with disproportionately low representation among Latiné (7.95%), Black/African American (5.08%), Asian (3.28%), American Indian/Alaska Native (0.13%) and other racial and ethnic groups. This lack of representation contributes to lower rates of care-seeking among communities of color and persistent disparities in mental health outcomes.
Training Inclusive Practitioners
SEHD is committed to preparing equity-minded mental health professionals through its nationally accredited MA in Counseling and MA in Couple and Family Therapy programs. These programs emphasize culturally informed interventions, social justice and systems theory, equipping graduates to serve diverse urban, rural and global communities.
Students in these programs receive rigorous academic and clinical training with a focus on theoretical knowledge around the social determinants of mental health. The school’s faculty and staff reflect a deep commitment to inclusion and innovation, creating a learning environment where students of all identities feel empowered.
“Since orientation day, I have felt incredibly supported by the faculty here. I feel they truly value my learning and growth as a person and aspiring couples and family therapist. I really appreciate that the program is firmly grounded in social justice and systems theory and inclusive of students of all identities. I know this will especially prepare me, as I hope to work with clients from diverse backgrounds throughout my career.”
— Helene Bansley, MA in Couple and Family Therapy student
Opportunities for Impact
Philanthropic support plays a vital role in removing financial barriers for students who are passionate about serving their communities. Approximately 84 percent of SEHD students qualify for financial aid, and 100 percent of graduates from these programs pass their state licensure exams. The job placement rate exceeds 88 percent, demonstrating the programs’ effectiveness and impact.
Donors have the opportunity to:
- Support scholarships and tuition assistance for students from underrepresented backgrounds
- Fund clinical experiences that promote diversity and address historical disparities
- Empower future community leaders in behavioral health
- Help recruit and retain students who will diversify and improve the mental health workforce
Every gift directly supports first-generation and multicultural students who are committed to improving mental health outcomes in their communities. This investment not only strengthens Colorado’s workforce, but fosters a more equitable and compassionate society.