PENNSYLVANIA — An innovative collaboration between the Shapiro administration and the University of Pittsburgh aims to uplift mental health services in Pennsylvania. The Department of Human Services (DHS) and the University of Pittsburgh announced a new initiative on Wednesday to offer free trauma-informed therapy certification to eligible Medicaid mental health providers.
The certification program, a joint venture of DHS’ Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) and the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, will provide specialized Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) training and certification. EMDR is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention frequently used for treating trauma and PTSD. By combining talk therapy with eye movements and other forms of stimulation, EMDR enables patients to process traumatic memories, thoughts, and feelings, thereby fostering mental health recovery.
“DHS is committed to using trauma-informed therapies to promote and support the well-being of all Pennsylvanians who need them,” said DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. “By partnering with the University of Pittsburgh to offer certifications for this innovative EMDR therapy, we are giving mental health providers additional tools to help Pennsylvanians struggling with mental health. I encourage all eligible Medicaid mental health providers to apply for this certification.”
Traditionally, EMDR certifications can cost approximately $4,000, posing a significant barrier to many mental health professionals. However, thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, DHS and the University of Pittsburgh can now offer EMDR trainings and certification at no cost to qualified providers.
“We are excited to launch this initiative as part of our ongoing commitment to fostering excellence and equity in mental health services,” said Molly B. Allwein, Director of Professional Education at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work. “By providing free EMDR certification to a diverse array of folks across the state of PA, we hope to lower barriers to education and empower helping professionals with the tools they need to make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by trauma.”
To qualify for the training program, participants must be clinically licensed professionals in Pennsylvania with a caseload comprising 51 percent or more Medicaid clients. The certification program is open to a wide range of licensed mental health professionals, including social workers, counselors, psychologists, and other qualified practitioners.
Participants will engage in a comprehensive training program led by experienced and EMDR-certified instructors. The training aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to implement EMDR therapy effectively.
The certification program will have multiple training sessions throughout 2024. Applications are now open for interested individuals who meet the eligibility criteria.
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