Counselor Education Receives Continued HRSA Funding to Strengthen the Behavioral Health Workforce

Renewed federal funding supports Stetson’s mission to prepare counselors for service in high-need communities.

August 1, 2025

Stetson University’s Department of Counselor Education has received renewed funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) program, supporting the department’s ongoing efforts to expand access to mental health care in underserved communities.

Stetson’s program, called the Hatters Behavioral Health Coalition (HBHC) prepares master’s-level counseling students to provide integrated behavioral health services in high-need areas through evidence-based, community-centered training. The renewed grant will allow Stetson to continue offering financial support, specialized coursework, and experiential learning opportunities for students completing internships in primary care, community clinics, and other interdisciplinary settings.

“This funding allows us to deepen our partnerships with community agencies while ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the growing mental health needs of our region,” said Professor Danielle Lindner, project director and Associate Department Chair in the Department of Counselor Education.

The grant’s continued support underscores the department’s leadership in preparing the next generation of behavioral health professionals committed to serving diverse populations. By integrating academic excellence with community engagement, the program advances the HRSA mission to strengthen the behavioral health workforce and improve access to quality care across Central Florida.

Read more about Professor Lindner