Social service groups are filling in the gaps of Illinois’ mental health workforce shortage

Illinois’ current behavioral health workforce can meet the needs of only about a quarter of residents, according to the latest federal data.

By Stephanie Kim
Social service groups are filling in the gaps of Illinois’ mental health workforce shortage
Emily Keating, a volunteer of Lakeview Pantry, prepares food for healthcare workers from Lakeview's Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Thursday, April 16, 2020. In 2021, the pantry received a city grant to hire more full-time therapists. Nam Y. Huh / AP Photo
Social service groups are filling in the gaps of Illinois’ mental health workforce shortage
Emily Keating, a volunteer of Lakeview Pantry, prepares food for healthcare workers from Lakeview's Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Thursday, April 16, 2020. In 2021, the pantry received a city grant to hire more full-time therapists. Nam Y. Huh / AP Photo

Social service groups are filling in the gaps of Illinois’ mental health workforce shortage

Illinois’ current behavioral health workforce can meet the needs of only about a quarter of residents, according to the latest federal data.

By Stephanie Kim
WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

During the pandemic, psychologists have reported bigger workloads and longer waitlists for current and potential clients. But they say there aren’t enough workers to meet the demand.

Reset discusses how the workforce shortage is affecting Illinois’ mental health care system and how Chicago social service organizations are stepping up to help.

GUESTS: Alexa James, executive director of NAMI Chicago

Natali Rehman, director of behavioral health at the Inner-City Muslim Action Network

Jennie Hull, chief program officer for Lakeview Pantry