Training the next generation of providers

As the spring semester ends, the Munroe-Meyer Institute continues to expand its mission to train the next generation of providers for individuals with disabilities and complex health care needs and their families.

Three new educational initiatives are particularly exciting.

MMI has worked in partnership with UNO for several years to develop a joint masters degree program in applied behavioral analysis. MMI’s Mark Shriver, Ph.D., directs the program. The program was designed to specifically help address the shortage of behavioral health providers in Nebraska. The program provides graduates with the skills and training to sit for Nebraska licensure as a mental health practitioners and also sit for national certification as an applied behavior analyst. The program has been approved by leadership at both UNMC and UNO and now awaits approval by the Board of Regents.

MMI has been a key contributor in the development of a new master’s degree in genetic counseling, to be offered by UNMC. The program required a collaborative effort between MMI, the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions, Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, Nebraska Medicine, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Boys Town National Research Hospital and Methodist Health System. It will involves classes taught by and clinical experiences provided by Munroe-Meyer faculty and staff. The program will be directed by Holly Zimmerman, who is in the process of preparing a full application for accreditation review.

Finally, MMI will be offering a new developmental-behavioral pediatrics fellowship training program. Directed by Howard Needelman, M.D., the training program will have slots for up to three residents.

MMI prides itself on its dedication to excellence in training. With these three new initiatives, MMI continues to strive to be a world leader in educating the next generation of providers. We are excited for the possibilities these new efforts offer.

Keith Allen
Director of Academic Affairs
The Munroe-Meyer Institute