The new associate degree in Applied Behavioral Health is designed to provide a foundation for individuals who are exploring or advancing a career in a growing field that includes helping people with substance abuse, serving the needs of young people and senior citizens, working with people who are incarcerated, as well as individuals who are in healthcare settings.
Dr. Johanna P. Bishop, director of Behavioral Health programs in the College of Social and Behavioral Science, says the curriculum for the two-year degree emphasizes the communication, empathy, multi-team collaboration, and crisis intervention crucial in thriving in a demanding, growing field.
“The Applied Behavioral Health degree will prepare new behavioral health professionals for a strong market demand and provide current behavioral health technicians with credentials and opportunities for growth in effective client support,” she says.
Skills include documenting information required by HIPAA, recognizing the difference between crisis intervention in ongoing therapy, and learning to listen actively and communicate respectfully and without judgment.