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Behavioral Health

Behavioral Health Foundations

Work alongside behavioral health teams supporting people living with mental health and substance use conditions.

What CHWs actually do here

CHWs build trust, reduce stigma, support engagement and follow-through with behavioral health services, help with basic needs that affect stability, and hold clear professional boundaries while working with clinical teams.

Where this work happens

  • Behavioral health agencies
  • Community clinics with integrated care
  • Health plans and ECM teams
  • Crisis and outreach programs
  • County behavioral health departments

Job titles to look for

  • Community Health Worker — Behavioral Health
  • Outreach Worker
  • Care Coordinator
  • Peer Support Specialist (separate credential)
  • Housing and Behavioral Health Navigator

Skills that matter in this pathway

  • Trauma-informed engagement
  • De-escalation basics
  • Boundaries and self-care
  • Warm handoffs to clinical staff
  • Substance use education

Training for this pathway

Catalyst training and curated outside options, each labeled so you know who issues it.

No training is tagged to this pathway yet — check Professional Development for the full directory.

Next steps

  • Catalyst Behavioral Health Foundations for CHWs is in development.
  • Explore trauma-informed practice and substance use education from recognized behavioral health organizations.
See all professional development

Jobs in this pathway

Live postings from the Career Center that match this pathway's specialties.

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Mentors in this pathway

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