Developing Nebraska's behavioral health workforce
BHECN was created by the Nebraska Legislature in 2009 and housed at UNMC. BHECN was charged with leading state behavioral health workforce development efforts including the recruitment, training and retention of behavioral health workers.
BHECN’s work is more important than ever as the state faces a critical shortage of behavioral health workers at a time when -- thanks in large part to the COVID-19 pandemic -- the need for behavioral health care is higher than it has ever been.
Pathways toward a career in behavioral health
Read a brochure and watch videos that explore the various career paths you can take to become a behavioral health professional in the state of Nebraska.
Upcoming BHECN events
10-01-2025 - 10-15-2025
Lifelong Learning Fund Application Cycle
10-10-2025 - 11-10-2025
Graduate Trainee Support Program Application Cycle
Recent News
BHECN conference report presents structure for statewide behavioral health strategy
The report, developed from discussions at BHECN’s inaugural Behavioral Health Workforce Partners Conference in June, highlights key priorities for a coordinated statewide approach.
Denise Pecha to lead BHECN’s network initiatives
Denise Pecha has joined the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska as associate director of network initiatives.
BHECN funding helps MMI fill rural internships
For the first time in several years, the Munroe-Meyer Institute has filled all three of its rural psychology internship spots. That’s thanks, in part, to funding from BHECN.