Who We Are & Mission Statement

Who We Are

In early 2003, Baltimore Mental Health Systems, Inc, the local mental health authority for Baltimore City, convened a number of leaders in the academic community to address the issues related to workforce development in community behavioral health , at all levels and across disciplines, and the gap between research findings, policy and practice. BMHS was able to attract the participation of many of the leading academic institutions in the Baltimore area. The group formed a non-profit corporation, as an affiliate of BMHS, named the Behavioral Health Leadership Institute. The Board of Directors is comprised of members from several representative institutions as well as the President of BMHS and other individuals who are active in the field of mental health or substance use disorders. The Institute concept is a unique approach to improving the quality of care. It offers a model that integrates service delivery, research, work force development, education and public policy in a unique partnership between academic institutions and a strong local mental health authority.

Mission Statement

The mission of the BHLI is to improve the delivery of mental health/substance use disorder services by bridging the gap between community needs, responsive service delivery, workforce development and research. BHLI will focus on:

• Improving the training of persons engaged in prevention and treatment of mental health and substance abuse disorders, and the promotion of mental health. The focus of workforce education and training will be derived from the identified service needs with input from vulnerable and under-served populations;
• Facilitating the education of professionals and community workers at all levels using curricula that are consistent with a public health model and responsive to community needs; and
• Engaging professionals and non-professionals in promoting behavioral health policy and enhancing public health service delivery.