The Landscape of Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning Programs

In response to a critical workforce scarcity in the mental health and substance use treatment field, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing shares initial findings from a year of exploration surrounding innovative solutions that may have the potential to decrease barriers to entering the field, such as Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) and other work-based learning programs (e.g., internships, pathway programs, AmeriCorps programs, etc.).

One of the primary challenges in the mental health and substance use treatment field is the workforce shortage. To address this complex issue, we must consider innovative solutions that decrease barriers to entering the field. Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP) and other work-based learning programs (e.g., internships, pathway programs) may have the potential to grow and strengthen the workforce to meet increased demands for mental health and substance use treatment services.

RAPs are an industry-driven career pathway where employers play a key role in developing and preparing their future workforce. Apprentices obtain paid work experience, receive progressive wage increases, classroom instruction and a portable, nationally recognized credential at the successful completion of the program. Registered apprenticeships are industry-vetted and approved by the U.S. Department of Labor (U.S. DOL) or a State Apprenticeship Agency (SAA). SAAs are recognized by the National Office of Apprenticeship to act on behalf of the U.S. DOL to register, oversee and track RAPS within their state. The U.S. DOL registers, oversees and tracks RAPs in states that do not have a SAA.

National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s Apprenticeship Program Capacity Building project

In 2023, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing launched its Apprenticeship Program Capacity Building project. The focus of this initiative was to better understand WBLPs, including apprenticeships, and their relationship to the MH/SU care and treatment workforce crisis. To learn more, read the Work-based Learning Handbook: Understanding Registered Apprenticeship Programs and Other Workforce Development Strategies.