House Bill Would Remedy Mental Health Workforce Shortage

The American Counseling Association needs your help!                                                             

Please support H.R. 2431, the Mental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act of 2019.  

Rep. John Katko (R-NY) introduced bipartisan legislation May 1 that would authorize a loan repayment program for mental health professionals to relieve critical workforce shortages in the number of mental health care providers across the country. The loan repayment program would assist mental health care providers who commit to working in designated communities with a lack of accessible mental health care.

How you can help

Contact your elected representatives to urge them to support this important bill—and share your perspective as a Licensed Professional Counselor. As a mental health care provider, you know the importance of being able to access mental and behavioral health support in your community.

Message your representatives here or call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 to be connected to their federal or local office. Phone calls are the best way to get the attention of staff and decision makers in congressional offices!

If you are available to meet with someone in your elected representatives’ state offices about the Mental Health Professionals Workforce Shortage Loan Repayment Act of 2019 , contact Guila Todd by email to help set up a meeting.

What the bill would provide

• H.R. 2431 would incentivize mental health care professionals to practice in underserved communities, improving access to treatment and improving the quality of care.
• H.R. 2431 would create a sustainable workforce of therapists, psychologists and counselors who can meet the mental health care needs of the nation.