Behavioral Health: Providing Mental Health Support in Your Community
Are you an empathetic, compassionate person with a desire to help others? Do other people comment on how you are a good listener? Consider a career in Behavioral Health. ACC is currently offering Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees and certificate options in Behavioral Health. Classes are available in-person, online, and hybrid so you can Move Mountains on your timeline. And, if you want to continue your educational journey, you can pursue a BAS from one of our partners in the Colorado Community College System.
What is Behavioral Health?
Behavioral health is the study of how our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors affect our overall health and well-being. Professionals in behavioral health support individuals experiencing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or life stressors by connecting them with resources, providing care, and promoting healthier outcomes.
Why Should You Choose a Degree or Certificate in Behavioral Health?
Behavioral health is an excellent career path for students who want to do meaningful work and make a positive difference in the lives of others. It is also one of the fastest-growing fields, with high demand across the country and throughout Colorado. Nearly every county in Colorado is designated as a federal Mental Health Professional Shortage Area, one in five Coloradans is living with a mental health condition, and the demand for behavioral health professionals continues to grow according to HRSA and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. If you're interested in a career in behavioral health, you are needed!
In addition to preparing you for a rewarding career and helping address Colorado's growing need for behavioral health professionals, a degree or certificate in behavioral health can benefit you in everyday life. Developing behavioral health knowledge and skills can help you better understand and respond to mental health challenges experienced by the people you interact with—both at work and in your personal life.
Degree and Certificate Options at ACC
Jump-start your career with 3 stackable certificates—Behavioral Health Plus, Qualified Behavioral Health Assistant, and Behavioral Health Assistant II — that build toward your Associate of Applied Science degree. Earn valuable credentials along the way and gain the skills employers are looking for at every step of your journey.
Our new Behavioral Health AAS in Mental Health and Social Work focuses on essential behavioral health knowledge and the ability to apply a broad range of concepts and skills in diverse behavioral health settings. This degree will prepare you to work in various mental health settings, such as hospitals, community mental health centers, and social service agencies in an entry-level role.
Careers in Behavioral Health
Launch your career in behavioral health with one (or more) certificates or an Associate of Applied Science degree that prepare you for entry-level roles as a behavioral health technician or assistant, crisis intervention specialist, peer support specialist, or Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). As you build experience, earn additional credentials, and continue your education, you'll open the door to even more career opportunities. Whether you're ready to enter the workforce right out of high school or plan to pursue advanced degrees and licensure in behavioral health, psychology, social work, or related fields, this program provides a strong foundation for your future.
How Your Behavioral Health Degree / Certificate Can Help You
A behavioral health certificate or degree can help you start making a difference — and earning an income — sooner. The Qualified Behavioral Health Assistant I and II credentials prepare you for state-recognized, Medicaid-reimbursable roles in Colorado, allowing you to gain valuable hands-on experience while continuing your education. The Behavioral Health Plus certificate is also a valuable addition to many career pathways, equipping professionals such as EMTs, law enforcement officers, teachers, and others who work with people in crisis with practical behavioral health skills. Whether you're ready to enter the workforce, enhance your current career, or explore the field before pursuing a bachelor's or graduate degree, these credentials provide a strong foundation and real-world experience that can help you achieve your goals.
Getting Started in Behavioral Health
Ready to start your journey in the field of Behavioral Health? Visit our Behavioral Health webpage to learn more and apply for one of our stackable degree or certificate programs or speak to one of our Admissions team members today.
Want to learn more about the field? Sign-up for our Behavioral Health Fair, which is taking place August 7 at ACC’s Sturm Collaboration Campus at Castle Rock! It’s a great opportunity to learn about where behavioral health can take you and to hear from behavioral health professionals about their experiences in the field.
by Julia Nienhaus, ACC Behavioral Health Program Strategist, and Sonya Riffel, ACC Behavioral Health Faculty and Academic Program Coordinator