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Across the country, organizations are struggling to keep up with the rising demand for mental health and substance use care. In addition to the high level of need, there aren’t enough people. Too few clinicians are entering the field, too many are burning out, and the pipeline isn’t varied or accessible enough to serve our communities.
In our latest Wellbeing Wednesdays episode, we sat down with Joseph Lee, MD, president and CEO of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, to discuss the workforce crisis and the bold solutions needed to address it. His insights illuminate the future of our field: expanding educational access, investing in frontline workers and rethinking what “recovery” truly means. Here are five key takeaways from the conversation.
1. Workforce Development Is a Moral Imperative
At Hazelden Betty Ford, workforce development isn’t merely a staffing concern — it’s part of the organization’s identity as a “social reform movement.” From its beginnings on a Minnesota farm in 1949, all the way through 76 years of shaping national recovery conversations, Hazelden Betty Ford has always put people first. Dr. Lee’s idea of an “ambassadorship culture” underscores that every frontline staff member carries the organization’s values into the world. Investing in them is essential, and in a strained field, that people-first mindset offers a model worth following.
2. Alternative Pathways Can Transform Who Enters the Field
Hazelden Betty Ford is pioneering a master’s degree pathway that doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree, a groundbreaking effort now in its second year. It opens doors for people with the passion and experience but not the traditional credentials. Combined with a 75% tuition discount for employees and loan-repayment support for graduates, this pathway removes major barriers and broadens who can enter and strengthen the behavioral health workforce.
3. “Grow Your Own” Is the Most Sustainable Workforce Strategy
Hazelden Betty Ford’s graduate school is the engine of a powerful workforce pipeline. Thirty-seven percent of frontline counselors at Hazelden Betty Ford treatment centers come directly from this program, creating a self-sustaining cycle of talent and retention. Graduates bring dual training in mental health and substance use, along with real-world experience and strong mentorship, making them uniquely prepared for today’s behavioral health landscape. It’s a clear demonstration that investing in internal development can fill roles and elevate the profession.
4. A New National Partnership Will Expand Access Nationwide
A major highlight is a new partnership between the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and Hazelden Betty Ford to expand accessible training pathways across the country. National Council members will gain access to discounted tuition, clinician pipeline programs and placement opportunities designed to close the gap between academic preparation and real-world practice. By aligning efforts, we can build a workforce that is better trained, better supported and better connected from day one.
5. Recovery — and Workforce Wellbeing — Are About Living One’s Values
Dr. Lee closes with a powerful definition of recovery: not simply sobriety, but living in alignment with one’s values and helping others thrive. That perspective applies to the workforce, too. When clinicians feel supported, empowered and connected to their purpose, they stay longer and make a deeper impact. It’s a reminder that building a strong workforce isn’t only about credentials. It’s about creating environments where people can grow, give back and live meaningfully.
The workforce crisis won’t be solved by one program, one organization or one partnership. It will be solved by a movement, one that removes barriers, invests deeply in people and opens doors for the next generation of clinicians. The National Council is proud to partner with leaders like those at Hazelden Betty Ford to make that future possible. Watch the episode to learn more!
