Mental Health

The Mental Health Pathway Project, led by Camden County College and Rowan College of South Jersey, connects students, adult learners, and literacy program participants to career pathways in the Mental and Behavioral Health field. Through workshops, certifications, and training programs, this pathway equips individuals with foundational knowledge, critical certifications, and clear academic and career roadmaps.

Over 140 high school students engaged in Mental and Behavioral Health Career Workshops, with 17 earning the Mental Health First Aid certification. These efforts fostered awareness and interest in aligned college majors and dual enrollment opportunities. Simultaneously, 25 adult literacy students explored mental health career options, with 14 earning Mental Health First Aid certification and eligible to earn six college credits toward their goals. Four adult learners became certified instructors in Mental Health First Aid, extending the project’s reach.

The project introduced two stackable certification pathways for Mental Health Support Technicians—one offering three certifications, and a dual track that includes CNA credentials. These certifications are aligned with industry needs and support employer recruitment and retention. The initiative also launched the Mental Health Pathways Advisory Board, bringing together stakeholders from education, healthcare, and workforce development to align efforts and champion Registered Apprenticeship and Mentorship Programs (RAMP), further validated through a toolkit approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.

By bridging education levels—from high school to college to professional certifications—and integrating prior learning assessments, the project creates an accessible and supportive pathway into a vital, in-demand industry.